UNIVERSAL CREDIT STILL AFFECTING FIFE’S MOST VULNERABLE

Published date : 28 Nov 2019

Mid Fife and Glenrothes MSP, Jenny Gilruth, has today (Thursday 28 November) commented on the recent analysis showing the negative impacts of Universal Credit in Fife.

The analysis found that Fife Council tenants receiving Universal Credit have an average of £202.38 of rent arrears per tenant. The combined arrears figure as of September 2019 was £1.4 million.

At a Fife level, the Welfare Reform Action Group (WRAP), continues to oversee the Universal Credit Operational Development group within the Fife Partnership, ensuring that all partners work together to support those affected by Universal Credit and other welfare reforms which are affecting the most vulnerable in Fife.

Commenting on the figures, the MSP said:

“Universal Credit has been beset by problems since its roll out. It’s leaving people across Mid Fife and Glenrothes destitute and driving families into poverty.

“Over 19,000 people in Fife are in receipt of Universal Credit – the majority of whom were subjected to a minimum 6 week wait to receive their first full payment and face tough benefit sanctions.

“It’s high time we reformed this broken system by putting all welfare powers in the hands of Scotland, so we can build a social security system which puts dignity and respect at its heart.”

The roll-out of Universal Credit for new claims was completed in December 2018. People still receiving one or more of the older benefits listed above will be switched to Universal Credit by the end of 2023.

ENDS

Local Reporters