Universal Credit – Parliamentary Written Answer

Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what discussions his Department has had with providers of exempt accommodation about how housing support will be funded under universal credit; and if he will make a statement.

Steve Webb: The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions announced at the Select Committee hearing last year that help with housing costs for those living in supported exempt accommodation will be provided outside universal credit, on much the same basis as now, until a more permanent solution is put in place. The objective of these arrangements is to protect the income streams of providers from any unintended consequences of welfare reform. Ministers and officials continue to meet with representatives of supported housing providers to ensure that this objective is achieved.