- New Universal Credit reform needed says report
- One in two people Citizens Advice helps with Universal Credit struggle to pay for housing
- Universal Credit - Now and in the Future Roadshow details
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Posted 06.02.19
Citizens Advice: Article link
People claiming Universal Credit are still struggling to pay for the roof over their heads, despite the wait for their first payment being reduced from six weeks to five, new Citizens Advice data shows.
One in two people the charity helped were in rent arrears or fell behind on their mortgage payments - the same number as when the wait for the first payment was longer.
Citizens Advice also found 60% of people it helped are taking out advances while they wait for payment.
The research also found that, following changes by Government in 2017, fewer people are falling behind on their bills or going without essentials during the wait period. Payment timeliness has improved - now one in six people are not paid in full and on time, while previously it was one in four.
The report, Managing Money on Universal Credit, reveals new analysis based on the 190,000 people Citizens Advice has helped with Universal Credit.
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Posted 04.02.19
National Housing Federation (NHF): Click the events for links.
18 March - Canalside, Bridgwater.
22 March - Yorkshire Housing, Leeds.
27 March - Peace Centre, Warrington.
28 March - Signing Tree, Birmingham.
29 March - Guinness, London.
2018 saw the completion of a full service roll out for Universal Credit across the country. In 2019 we can expect to see further developments with Managed Migration and a refreshed Universal Support service.
The NHF and and Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) are hosting half-day roadshow events on the above dates, helping delegates to:
Speakers from the DWP and housing associations will discuss the progress and experience so far, how best to manage changes to come and what Universal Credit means for tenants and housing associations.
The above links give access to booking places - which are limited and will be allocated on a first come first served basis.
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Updated 07.02.19
