Mr Whatley says the Department of Work and Pensions cannot process his benefits claim until they receive a statutory sick pay note from his employer Group Response Services, of Selby, forcing him, his wife and his 13-year-old daughter Lisa to live on less than £100 a week.

Mr Whatley, who lives with his family in West Acres, Byram, hasn't worked at the security firm as a driver since a road accident in June last year forced him to take sick leave.

He's currently taking tests for his failing eyesight to determine if he can be registered blind, thereby qualifying for disability benefit. But 12 months on from his accident, Mr Whatley is living on a pittance, finding it hard to pay food bills and make ends meet.

Mrs Whatley added: "I can't live like this much longer.

"All we want is the money we're entitled to. We're trying to be patient but it's getting harder."

Group Response managing director Ian Crawford says he's doing all he can to help Mr Whatley.

He added: "The firm has been in consultation with the Royal National Institute for the Blind over Mr Whatley's eyesight tests, and we've sent at least six forms to the DWP in support of his sickness claim. We're doing all we can."

A Department for Work and Pensions spokesman said: "Although we're unable to discuss individual cases, the outcome of any claim can be delayed where we've not been able to obtain relevant or supporting information to help us reach a decision.

"However, we're concerned about the overall length of time that has elapsed in this case, and we will urgently re-examine the circumstances and contact Mr Whatley to let him know what action we will now take to bring this matter to a swift conclusion."