Why Is This Board So Judgemental?

Scarla

I read this post from Martin when I first posted, but other forums members do not appear to follow his guidance. Just a general question, why are members so judgemental?

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/365935

Can't people just offer advice as to benefit entitlement, and not jump on the bandwagon?

Tigsteroonie

Human nature, I guess. We do try to refer discussions about the welfare system over to Discussion Time, but not always successfully.

FRESTER

Scarla wrote: »

I read this post from Martin when I first posted, but other forums members do not appear to follow his guidance. Just a general question, why are members so judgemental?

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/365935

Can't people just offer advice as to benefit entitlement, and not jump on the bandwagon?

I tend to agree with you but I suppose everyone is entitled to their opinions.I don't think this is the place for them though.
Some great people on here with really good knowledge of benefits and tax credits.

williacg

It's a shame, as it will deter people in crisis and in genuine need of a little support from posting their queries.

Williacg

Scarla

I agree about certain posters been very helpful, it just doesn't seem to be the majority, and I worry people will not ask for help after reading the judgemental posts.

tomtontom

Many of the threads are overtaken by a certain troll, currently posting as billywilly. But he only continues to post because people feed him. Threads would remain on topic, and be far more constructive, if people stopped responding to him.

Scarla

blondebubbles wrote: »

I think it's hard to stay neutral because some people accept what they are entitled to and are grateful for any help available where as others constantly complain that it's not enough.

I would agree that certain posters are not happy with benefits they receive, although the majority are just looking for genuine help.

I haven't been a member for very long, and haven't encountered much negativity but am concious of the minefield that is state benefits,

Scarla

tomtontom wrote: »

Many of the threads are overtaken by a certain troll, currently posting as billywilly. But he only continues to post because people feed him. Threads would remain on topic, and be far more constructive, if people stopped responding to him.

I am guilty of 'feeding' that paticular member, it's very hard not to when he tells the 'stories' he does. I think I will refrain in future.

densol_2

Ive learned an incredible amount from these boards ! I was a high earner till I was injured and found myself in benefit world ! Blondebubbles and Icequeen and Rogerblack to name a few are constantly giving quality advice again and again with immense patience. Its a real shame that trolls post on here bragging about tax evasion and benefit grabbing and other trolls have a go at genuine enquiries. I try and keep my questions as neutral as possible to avoid any targetting.

[Deleted User]

It's why I don't claim any benefits, would rather go other places first, although this board is far from worst casting judgment. I do feel uneasy seeing such direct claims another poster is xxx

TELLIT01

I would say that the number of individuals who are so judgemental are few, but very vociferous. It's not easy to ignore them when they are at it time and time again. Blondebubbles may have a point when saying that the way a question is phrased can cause negativity, but surely simply giving a factual answer to the underlying question rather than reacting to a perceived position of 'entitlement' is the best way to proceed.
If the OP then comes back with reaction which tends to support the 'entitled to' mentality, stop responding to them altogether.