Universal Credit - support for residents

For months, Labour have been calling on the Government to make the £20 uplift to Universal Credit permanent This increase has been a lifeline for many at a time where families across the country are struggling to make ends meet. In many cases, this extra money is the difference between being able to pay for the gas, electricity, or internet bill. Indeed, a report by the Resolution Foundation think-tank has warned that any cut would see a further 1.2 million people, including 400,000 children, fall into relative poverty.

While the Government never turned up to vote on Labour’s motion at the February Opposition Day debate, it is generally convention that the Government implements successful opposition day votes. We are therefore pleased that the Chancellor decided to extend the £20 uplift for another six months. While disappointing that this is not a permanent measure, I know this will bring much needed reassurance to many.

Given the number of families I know are struggling at the moment, I have included some links below which I hope will be of use:

• For help with applying for benefits and appealing decisions made by the DWP, you can phone Turn2Us for free on 0808 802 2000, 9am - 5.pm Mondays-Fridays or email them at info@turn2us.org.uk. Turn2Us helps people in financial need gain access to welfare benefits, charitable grants and other financial help.
• For impartial advice on Universal Credit, including how to claim and a specialist calculator, Martin Lewis (Money Saving Expert) has a useful page here.
• If you are struggling to pay for a weekly shop, you can phone the Trussell Trust’s free helpline on 0808 2082138 Monday-Friday 9am-5pm. Their helpline is staffed by trained Citizen’s Advice advisors. You can also read more about how to access foodbank vouchers here.
• If you are worried about debt, you can speak to the National Debt Line for free using their webchat here.

For mental health issues and support, you can always phone Samaritans on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.uk 

I hope this information is useful and, please remember, if you are struggling at the moment - you are not alone.