I got sick last year, was self-employed, needed an operation before I could get better. After getting through my savings I thought I could (needed to) rely on the safety net that is our benefits system. Due to it being UC, no consideration was given to the fact I had a sick note or upcoming surgery. I was sanctioned by my job coach for not looking for work enough, has to be 35hrs a week of proven work search, whether you are off your face on painkillers or not. I also was given job interviews to attend, even though I could barely walk previous to the first operation. Long story short..Instead of helping me through a very tough period in my life, I was left with sanction after sanction, to the point where I have received no UC at all since May of this year. Instead, having to apply for a Hardship Loan each month. My income since MAY has been £700. (Average monthly loan of £120.) Still awaiting my final surgery, with no way to earn a living until I have recovered. I'm incredibly lucky I have been able to get into debt to survive. Many people don't have any other option than to rely on the benefits system to literally survive. One that has been dismantled from the inside, and has led to the suffering of many people. If I hadn't of got sick, I would never have known how bad it has become. To say there still a safety net for the british public would be a push, the way things are currently.