In the March 3 budget, the Chancellor will announce the Government's intentions regarding the £20 uplift of Universal Credit that has been in place since the start of the pandemic. Previously they have said that they intend to withdraw it at the end of March 2021. Campaigners at the Derbyshire Unemployed Workers’ Centres (DUWC) are very concerned at the devastating consequences of a benefit reduction while people are struggling with coronavirus, redundancies and a depleted job market.
DUWC has been contacted by a large number of people who have shared their concerns. Gemma Lawery of Holmehall said,
“It has been a great help with the new baby. I am able to buy more fresh produce for all as a family. Especially for the children who we want to provide the best start in life. Health is so important and I'm sure you can appreciate that now more than ever.”
Colin Hampton Coordinator of the Derbyshire Unemployed Workers’ Centres said,
"The evidence is that the virus has affected those with lower incomes disproportionately during the pandemic. It makes no sense to reduce their incomes in a public health crisis. Benefits in this country, contrary to popular belief, are already too low. We appeal to the Government to continue to do the right thing and maintain the £20 uplift.”
Jane Charlton of Inkersall commented,
"The extra £20 has enabled me to keep my flat warm and help buy me some fruit to improve my diet - being diabetic this is important. Without the extra help I won't be able to heat my home and eat healthily - it will be a case of which do I choose?”
Brian Wakefield of Old Tupton said, "The £20 a week has meant a lot to us because it helps us with our heating bills because being disabled I can't move around much and feel the cold a lot more.”
DUWC urges Universal Credit claimants to write to their MPs telling them what the £20 per week Universal Credit uplift means to them and what the consequences will be if the Government takes it away. DUWC has been giving a voice to unemployed workers and those claiming benefits since 1983. They call on people to contact them on (01246) 231441 between 8 am and 4 pm on weekdays if they are facing problems during the pandemic. They have just launched a new mobile phone friendly website www.duwc.org.uk and ask newly redundant workers to get in touch.