on benefits with 13000 in the bank is it safe to do this

TELLIT01

He needs to contact DWP and inform them of the money he received, and the date it was received. Prepare bank statements for the past 6 months to prove the date the money went into the account. There will be an overpayment to be recovered, but it's much better for a claimant to inform DWP than for DWP to find out by other means.

System

Being mentally ill is neither here nor there really, as all parties seem to know already that they should be declaring the money one way or the other. Best to speak to the DWP, and wouldn't hurt to ask at citizens advice where and whether the person/ or mother can get some assistance and advice on handling finances if and when needed so they don't get into difficulties again? As has already been said tell the DWP before they find out by other means.