A father has told how his family was getting deeper into debt because he needs dialysis treatment after a kidney failure.

And Michael Revell, 50, of Martello Bay, Clacton, called for urgent changes in regulations which prevent him claiming benefits.

Mr Revell has to travel to the Royal London Hospital three days each week for dialysis - without it he would be dead within three weeks.

But because he gets the treatment, he is no longer considered disabled and is unable to claim Disability Living Allowance or any help with his travelling expenses.

He is stuck in a Catch 22 situation.

"I spend more than £100 a month on medication and £70 a week on rail fares. I suppose technically I could work but who would employ me on the two days a week that I am not going up to London."

Mr Revell suffered a nervous breakdown and missed work for about five years. He then went back and suffered renal failure.

And although his firm in London tried to find him light work, he was not able to carry on. He also suffers from angina and has had a heart attack.

"Basically we survive on my wife, Elaine, working all the hours she can, help from family and charity," he added.

"We are in debt every month and somehow I have got to do something about it but I get met with a stone wall everywhere I try."

Mr Revell said he has been to the Citizens' Advice Bureau, which is appealing against the decision to refuse him benefits.

Clacton MP Ivan Henderson said he had taken similar cases up for other constituents and had signed an early day motion for a review of arrangements for this disease.

He has also supported the setting up of an all-party parliamentary group to address the issues and if Mr Revell contacted him direct he would also look into his circumstances.

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