CAP: ‘removing Universal Credit lifeline will lead to a sharp rise in poverty’
Christians Against Poverty is extremely worried by the recent cut to Universal Credit which leaves millions at risk of falling into debt.
National debt help charity Christians Against Poverty (CAP) is responding to the news of Universal Credit reduction and warning of the debt crisis to come.
CAP’s Social Policy Manager, Rachel Gregory, says, “This is a decision which will devastate millions of low income households and it’s simply not right. The price of many basic essentials, such as food and energy, is on the rise but many people will also now lose £20-a-week from their basic entitlement. This is a 20% reduction in the Universal Credit Standard Allowance.
“There is no doubt that the Government taking away this money will directly harm so many households across the UK. Citizens Advice is warning that at least 2.3 million people will fall into debt and we are braced for a surge in demand for free debt help from ourselves at Christians Against Poverty and other debt help charities.”
In recent weeks, CAP, alongside Church Action on Poverty, has seen over 1,100 church leaders write a letter to the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, raising their concerns. Over 2,700 of CAP’s supporters and those directly affected also wrote to their local MP to urge the Government to keep the lifeline.
Rachel continued, “The overwhelming support for this issue shows just how important it is to millions of people. We want the Government to urgently reinstate the uplift, and use the upcoming Spending Review to consider the investment needed to make sure social security is a strong lifeline for everyone through a cost of living review.
“We are gearing up to offer free debt help to as many people impacted by this cut as we can. We will continue to advocate for positive action to be taken so those experiencing financial hardship have the opportunity to live with dignity, without fear and anxiety, recover, and have hope restored in their lives.”
FREE debt help is available
If you are struggling with debt and need help, contact CAP on 0800 328 0006 or visit capuk.org.
