Benefit Cuts Risk Eviction and Homelessness

The government’s decision to cut housing benefit has been criticised by homelessness charities and housing associations. In his first Budget speech as chancellor George Osborne announced a package to cut housing benefit by £1.8 billion a year by 2014/15. He also announced a package of measures to the housing benefit system, which he said was in “dire need of reform.” Mr Osborne said: ‘Costs are completely out of control. Campbell Robb, chief executive of Shelter, said the debate should not be muddied by using extreme examples of claims. He said: ‘Nearly half of housing benefit claimants are making up a shortfall of £100 to meet their rent. ‘If this support is ripped out suddenly from under their feet it will push many households over the edge, triggering a spiral of debt, eviction and homelessness.’ Read the full story on Inside Housing.