CYP Now - Universal credit cut reduces young people’s options

We are all too aware that universal credit offers a vital lifeline for vulnerable young people. For many the £20 uplift, introduced last year amid the Covid-19 pandemic, has broadened the horizon in terms of their financial and living opportunities.

Denise Hatton is chief executive of YMCA England and Wales

Many youth sector organisations have been calling on the government to rethink its decision to end the uplift from 6 October, which will serve only to pull the carpet out from under young people just when they are starting to refind their feet.

Young people aged under 25 and living without a partner are currently entitled to £344 a month in universal credit payments under the standard allowance, but this will be reduced to £257. This significant drop will have a massive impact not only in terms of daily living and lifestyle, but also on what they are able to afford in housing and rent.

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