Paul Churchman
Benefit Fraud *
Sentence
Three years imprisonment
Paul Churchman, a 49-year-old delivery driver, earned £403,000 as a self-employed courier over 11 years while fraudulently claiming benefits from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and local council. He lied about his disabilities to claim Personal Independence Payment (PIP), stating he needed help with daily tasks like preparing meals, bathing, and walking due to a bad back, which was untrue. The fraud involved claims for Housing Benefit (£105,786), Income Support (£45,411), PIP (£38,404), Universal Credit (£24,562), Jobseeker's Allowance (£9,589), Employment and Support Allowance (£8,081), and Council Tax Reduction (£3,340). The couple only repaid £3,500, with a repayment plan of £250 per month.
Pleaded guilty to multiple offences and took full responsibility for the benefit fraud. Has 11 previous convictions. Judge rejected claims that his ADHD influenced the long-term offending, noting he involved his wife and failed to correct his actions.