A HOUSING group in Ludlow and south Shropshire wants people who are struggling to make sure that they receive the support that they are entitled to get.
New research released last month from the national charity Turn2us has found that almost half (48%) of low-income households are not claiming the welfare benefits and tax credits they could be entitled to.
This is despite the fact that a huge 87% of this group have seen no improvement to their financial situation over the last year.
“We often hear stories about people claiming benefits they are not entitled to, however, underpayments are rarely highlighted,” said Ann Sutcliffe from the Shropshire Housing Group.
“Often the complexity of the benefits system or a belief that they aren’t entitled to claim puts people off.”
Turn2us found that nearly three-fifths (57%) of those not receiving this support said they had been deterred from checking or claiming potential benefits entitlements because they did not think they would be eligible. In addition, more than a fifth (22%) of households with children said they were unsure of how or where to find out about this help, while a quarter (25%) of people with disabilities felt recent welfare benefit changes have made it too difficult to apply.
As a result, more than four-fifths (81%) have not checked what welfare benefits they could be entitled to within the last year. This is highest for full-time (86%) and part-time workers (87%), suggesting they may not be aware of in-work benefits, which exist to top-up low incomes.
Furthermore, two-thirds (66%) would not consider checking their benefits entitlements if their income dropped, and only 4% would turn to a charity for help. Yet nearly two-fifths (37%) said they would cut back on gas, electricity and other essentials, and almost a third (30%) would resort to cutting back on food.
“We would absolutely encourage everyone to revisit what benefits they are entitled to claim and would also like to hear from our tenants if they are about to claim Universal Credit as we can offer assistance with the process,” added Ann Sutcliffe.
People can call Shropshire Housing Group on 0300 303 1190 for advice. More help is available by using the free and confidential benefits calculator at Turn2us.org.uk
The website also features information on benefits and other help for a range of different circumstances.
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