Responding to today’s budget announcement by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Liz Bayram, Chief Executive of AdviceUK said:
“We are pleased to see the punishing two-child benefit cap lifted – a sign of the Government listening to our members and others in the advice sector. However, the Government needs to go further to tackle poverty by committing to no further damaging cuts to welfare and by funding the advice sector as a key partner in public service delivery. Any reforms to the benefits system must be co-designed with people relying on the system and the advice services that support them.
“We also welcome the measures to bring down energy bills and reduce the cost of living.
“But without increased funding to alleviate pressures on chronically underfunded and overstretched advice services, many people will continue to struggle to access life-saving free, independent advice when they need it most; in turn, increasing pressure on public services.
“With the cost-of-living crisis and the impact of benefit cuts, advice services struggle to meet the skyrocketing demand for advice and support. Some are at a breaking point due to staff shortages. Without properly investing in advice, a bad situation is going to get worse.”
Notes to Editors
About AdviceUK:
AdviceUK is a national charity and the largest network of independent advice centres in the UK, delivering free specialist advice to millions of people each year on a diverse range of issues. Run by and for its nearly 700 members, we provide support, a community and development opportunities for members, as well as a voice on issues that affect them.
Press contacts
Ceren Gunel, Press Officer: press@adviceuk.org.uk or 07955 296206
