Universal Credit claimants in Essex to miss out on £20 uplift from today
The temporary uplift to universal credit will stop today, prompting concerns for low income families.
Last updated 6th Oct 2021
Universal Credit will be cut by £20 a-week from today, causing concerns for many people and families in Essex.
Martin Lord is the Head of Development for Citizen's Advice Essex, an independent charity that provides free advice on finance and debt management.
He says, "The effects of the pandemic haven't really ended. People are still struggling financially. Costs are going up and incomes are coming down."
"I think there will be more people who will be presenting to our services who have gotten into some kind of debt to pay off these costs", he adds.
When asked about steps people can take to reduce their bills, Mr. Lord says this is not an issue that can be managed through better budgeting. "People on lower incomes, from our experience are already good at budgeting and making ends meet,"
"Unfortunately there are going to be people who are going to really be struggling and have huge difficulties for which there isn't going to be a simple solution."
"They're just going to have lots of problems with health and well-being, and some people will have to choose between heating or eating."
The Department of Work and Pensions addressed these concerns in a statement to us:
"We’ve always been clear that the uplift to Universal Credit was temporary. It was designed to help claimants through the economic shock and financial disruption of the toughest stages of the pandemic, and it has done so"
“Universal Credit will continue to provide vital support for those both in and out of work and it’s right that the Government should focus on our Plan for Jobs, supporting people back into work and supporting those already employed to progress and earn more.”
They also added that an additional £500 million worth of funds will be made available to vulnerable households across the country to help them with essentials over the coming months.
Mr. Lord urges those who are worried about their financial situation to look out for grants like these. "Some people may not be applying for their full share of benefits, if for example there is a disability in the family."
"Secondly, local councils should be making available access to limited funds through certain wellbeing or welfare schemes for people in real dire straits."
"Food banks are absolutely an option for certain people and have become very popular in the last few years. Also people who are now eligible for free school meals for their children should avail the same."
If these measures don't prove enough then people can always approach organisations like Citizens Advice and other independent charities. Mr. Lord says, " If you are going to get into difficulties with regards to debt then seek out support from independent providers of debt advice like us.
"We also provide help for those who have gone into debt arrears and are concerned about things like they're homes being repossessed."