Why #KeepTheLifeline matters

We recently launched our #KeepTheLifeline campaign, urging the government to commit to keeping the £20 a week uplift to Universal Credit. The £20 a week uplift to Universal Credit has been a lifeline for many families during the coronavirus pandemic — we know it’s a vital issue for many of the people who come to us for help. But it’s a temporary increase and is due to end in April this year.

In this blog, we share 4 reasons why the £20 uplift to Universal Credit matters to Manchester residents, and why we’re urging MPs to #KeepTheLifeline. 

1. Rising food costs

In the North West, the £20 uplift is the equivalent of almost 3 days of food costs. We believe that no one should have to choose between buying food and other necessary household expenses. 

£20 a week is a lifeline for many of the families who contact us. If you’re struggling to pay for food for your family, please get in touch with us. 

2. Help with energy bills

With so many of us spending more time at home during lockdown, our energy bills are already rising. £20 is the equivalent of 6 days of energy costs - that’s nearly a week of energy bills that Manchester families are set to lose if the uplift is not maintained. 

If you’re worried about paying your energy bills, contact one of our dedicated energy advisers for support.

3. Keeping people out of debt

In October, Citizens Advice published new research looking at the crucial role the uplift has played in sustaining households during this crisis. Our Life on less than zero report found that 75% of the people we help with debt who receive Universal Credit and Working Tax Credit would have a negative budget (meaning they would be unable to cover their living costs) if this increase was removed. 

4. Digital inclusion

Claiming Universal Credit is an online-only process, which means that many people eligible for the benefit need support to apply. The residents who will struggle the most without the £20 uplift are also likely to be at risk of digital exclusion. 

Our digital inclusion work across Manchester aims to reduce the skills and income gap that comes with reduced access to digital devices. For example, we’re working with partners in Manchester to get digital devices to the people who need them most, meaning that more residents can manage their benefits online. 

Manchester residents claiming Universal Credit for the first time can also speak to our Help to Claim team. Our advisers can talk you through the application, giving any support necessary from first enquiry to your first month’s payment.

For more on our #KeepTheLifeline campaign, follow us on Twitter and Facebook, and sign up for our email newsletter.