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.

‘Cut Today, Pay Tomorrow,’ Warns Homeless Charity

As homelessness rises across the country, plans to cut local funding of housing support services by up to 85% will damage lives and communities, Homeless Link warns.  Who is supporting people now? has been published as Homeless Link’s CEO, Rick Henderson, calls on local authorities not to go ahead with disproportionate cuts to housing support services and homelessness budgets following a visit to services that could face closure if cuts of 85% are implemented in their community.  Some deep concerns have been highlighted by the report, which explores the impact of funding changes on local authorities, services and the people they support in seven communities in England.  Download a copy of the report from the Homeless Link website.

Council Funds Home Services Shortfall

Mansfield District Council has said it is providing £2.2m to maintain services for vulnerable people after its county council funding was cut.  The Council said its budget for short term and long term housing support services had been reduced by £1.9m from April 2013.  It said it had found money to plug the shortfall from within existing budgets and by making savings. The cash will support homeless people and those who need extra help at home. Services to receive the funding include temporary accommodation for homeless people and support for those at risk of becoming homeless.  The district council will also fund support for vulnerable and elderly people in their homes, including 24-hour response, companionship and home help services.  Read more on the BBC website.