A man "with a crumbling spine" faces a government tribunal next month over whether he is fit for work.

News Shopper revealed in September how Simon Tupper, 42, has degenerative disk disease, as well as a trapped nerve and a crushed nerve which leaves him in permanent agony. 

The former electrician normally only leaves his bed to use the toilet and Gina has to help him in their home in West Street, Erith, as well as care for their two-year-old son.

His only hope of a cure is a 10-hour operation - involving a metal cage being inserted around his spine - which he is due to have in a few months but could leave him paralysed for life.

However in July the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) insisted he be put in the work-related activity group which means he must attend job interviews and courses or lose his 
benefits.

Now his partner, Gina Nash, 30 has told News Shopper he has a date for a tribunal on January 22 next year. 

Ms Nash said: "They expected Simon to go Bexleyheath regardless of the fact he has now been put on morphine as his pain has increased and his doctor has advised him not to travel as it 
is making him worse. 

"I will be going as his representative as he cannot travel and our MP, Teresa Pearce, has written a supporting letter.

"Simon’s in agony all the time because his spine is crumbling.

"He doesn’t have good days anymore."