Millions missing out on £24bn of support

Millions of people aren’t claiming financial support that could help them with the cost of living.

According to Policy in Practice, an estimated seven million households will miss out on £24bn of income-related benefits and social tariffs this year.

This includes £11.1bn in universal credit alone, as well as:

• carer’s allowance - £2.4bn
• council tax support - £3.3bn
• pension credit - £1.6bn

At the same time, many people are missing out on other support that’s available, including:

• broadband social tariffs - £1.5bn
• water discounts - £745m
• warm homes discount - £722m 

Why are people not claiming support?

Policy in Practice believes many people aren’t getting help because they “simply don’t know they they’re eligible”.

This, it said, is especially true among those who are in work, have some savings, or have recently seen a change in their circumstances.

Many are also put off by the sheer complexity of the system, with “long forms, unclear guidance and inconsistent experiences” making it hard for some to know where to start.

Meanwhile, lots of people are afraid of being judged, with negative media coverage of benefit claimants putting some off seeking help, and others not trusting the organisation administering that support.

Benefits system must be made simpler

Policy Practice has called for the benefits system to be made “more accessible, joined up and easier to navigate”.

For example, it has suggested using data more effectively to ensure people get the right support at the right time, as well as communicating more clearly and respectfully.

“This isn’t a failure of the public,” said Deven Ghelani, director of Policy in Practice.

“It’s a failure of a social security system that is still too complex, too fragmented and too passive.
 
“Every £1 claimed is a step toward better health, improved education, stronger families and reduced pressure on public services.”

Don’t miss out 

If you’re not sure if you qualify for universal credit and other state benefits, we can help.

You can either give us a ring and we’ll check for you, or use our free benefits calculator to see what support you could get.