CAB guide to benefits
Plain English booklet out
Stirling Citizens Advice Bureau has launched a new ‘plain English guide’ to Universal Credit.
The 29-page pamphlet will help with applications to the scheme, how to challenge a decision and prepare for interviews with work coaches.
Universal Credit, which combines six benefits into a single payment, was rolled out in Stirling in June last year.
Its introduction by the Westminster Government has been criticised over delayed payments difficulties faced by many people in submitting online applications for the benefit.
The Observer reported in November that 1041 Stirling Council tenants were on the scheme, with claimants now owing almost £200,000 in rent arrears.
Foodbank referrals by the council also jumped from 245 in 2016 to 412 in 2017. And in November last year in Stirling 1500 were on Jobseekers Allowance or searching for work on Universal Credit.
It was announced on Sunday , January 6 that the next phase of the rollout of the Universal Credit programme would be halted following the criticism.
Mid Scotland and Fife MSP Dean Lockhart welcomed publication of the new guide. He said: “The UK Government has continued to listen to the concerns of claimants, constituents, charities and welfare organisations and have made significant changes to the system as a result, including extra support for those with mental health conditions, more support for vulnerable young people and more support for families who look after other family members’ children.
“This is why the UK Government have set up a support scheme in partnership with Citizens Advice Scotland from April 2019 which will support people with their claim whilst the rollout of Universal Credit continues.”
Stirling MSP Bruce Crawford also commented: “I am grateful to Citizens Advice for taking this inclusive approach to offering advice and support to people seeking Universal Credit. From the beginning, this system has been confusing and complicated for many.
“My SNP colleagues and I have consistently called for Universal Credit to be halted and fixed. Now that the UK Government has indicated that it is putting the brakes on further rollout of this system, I am keen to find out more detail on what this means for my constituents.”
Get more at www.stirlingcab.org.uk.