An Aberdeen woman who claimed more than £4,000 in pension payments she wasn’t entitled to has been ordered to carry out unpaid work.
Ann Sim, 68, appeared at the city’s sheriff court yesterday and admitted making a false statement or representation to the Department for Work and Pensions.
She received £4,872.40 in pension credit between September 15, 2016 and August 9, 2017 on the grounds she was living alone.
In fact, the court was told, her husband lived with her and was in employment throughout that period.
Sim was represented by solicitor Gail Goodfellow, who said there was “no excuse” for her client’s actions.
She added: “In 2010, Mrs Sim’s oldest son died and she was left with substantial debts.
“That put a strain on her marriage and she and her husband separated in 2011, though they remained in contact since they have six grandchildren together.
“In 2016, her health deteriorated substantially after she suffered from kidney problems that left her immobile.
“Her husband returned to look after her between 2016 and 2017.
“This might have been an oversight. She accepts she should have admitted to it.
“She has cooperated fully with whatever has been requested of her.”
Sheriff Ian Anderson ordered Sim, of Balnagask Avenue, Aberdeen, to carry out 60 hours of unpaid work within six months.