Chipping Barnet Foodbank Calls for Realistic Universal Credit Rates
Bob Bevil argues current Universal Credit levels do not reflect actual living costs.
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Bob Bevil, from Chipping Barnet Foodbank, has urged for a reassessment of Universal Credit (UC) rates, arguing they are not aligned with the reality of daily living expenses. He suggests that the system should adopt a calculation method comparable to that used for the Living Wage.
Bevil highlighted that the Living Wage is determined through a detailed methodology developed by the Resolution Foundation for the Living Wage Foundation. This calculation incorporates household living costs, assumes all eligible benefits are claimed, and accounts for tax variations, among other factors.
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Critique of Current Universal Credit Levels
In contrast to the Living Wage, Bevil described the current setting of Universal Credit levels as historical and arbitrary. He stated that these rates do not reflect day-to-day living expenses, noting that the cost of essential items such as bread and milk has significantly increased. The current monthly rate for a single adult under 25 is £338.58.
Bevil expressed that there is no independent cost-of-living standard to anchor calculations for Universal Credit. He believes there is merit in calculating UC in a similar fashion to the Living Wage to ensure its relevance and realism for recipients. The Trussell Trust is currently campaigning for benefits to guarantee essentials.
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Questions this report answers
+What is the current Universal Credit rate for a single adult under 25?
The current Universal Credit rate for a single adult under 25 is £338.58 per month. Bob Bevil from Chipping Barnet Foodbank argues this amount is not realistic and does not reflect current living expenses.
+How is the Living Wage calculated?
The Living Wage is calculated using a methodology that includes household living costs and tax variations. This calculation is undertaken by the Resolution Foundation on behalf of the Living Wage Foundation.
+Why does Bob Bevil think Universal Credit rates need to change?
Bob Bevil believes current Universal Credit rates are historical and arbitrary, not based on current living expenses, especially the rising costs of essentials. He suggests a calculation method similar to the Living Wage would make it more realistic.
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