Poverty2Solutions

There are so many issues affecting people living in poverty that could be ameliorated or even resolved if policy makers worked effectively with those that have direct lived experience. One of the issues Poverty2Solutions is focusing on is the issue of Universal credit and debt deductions.

What are debt deductions from benefits?

Debt deductions are when a benefit claimant has arrears of essential household outgoings (like rent or advance payments) so the DWP take some or all of what the claimant owes out of their benefit payment to pay that debt back. So as a benefit payment you will not receive the full amount of your benefit, the amount taken will vary - currently it is a maximum of 30% of your overall benefit. 

Our ask to Government is…

“The UK Government should work in partnership with people with lived experiences of the social security system to ensure debt deductions from Universal Credit and legacy benefits are not drivers of hardship and destitution. This includes repayment of UC advances that many people are forced to borrow to survive the minimum five-week wait for their first UC payment.”

#1: Debt Deductions the basics

FACTSHEET

An info sheet we developed for our members that gives the basics on debt deductions including what benefits are affected, what can be taken, the scale and impact of debt deductions as well as latest policy developments.

Debt Awareness week

FROM OUR BLOG

W/C 22nd March marks Debt Awareness week and Poverty2Solutions have released this article calling on all of us to look at the drivers of debt and the Government’s own role here as a debt collector.

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Or just get in touch

To get involved with the project or find out more you can get in touch at info@poverty2solutions.org.