Consequences of welfare reforms on the capital’s housing sector

Some welfare benefits such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Universal Credit have yet to be rolled out, so the true impact of all the welfare reforms on disabled people, especially in London where rents are high, is not fully know yet.

Housing Benefit’s new under occupational penalty or bedroom tax is of particular concern as it is likely to force disabled people from their homes, resulting in the loss of employment and accessible housing.   Research shows that 9 in 10 (90%) disabled people are cutting back on food or bills to pay the bedroom tax if they are refused Discretionary Housing Payment.  It is likely that once PIP and Universal Credit is rolled out on a national basis that many more disabled people will find it impossible to stay in their home and will have to move to a cheaper area with the possible loss of care packages and support networks.

Inclusion London’s believes the under occupation penalty/bedroom tax should be abolished.  In meantime we ask the London Assembly Housing Committee to use their influence and strongly recommend to the Local Authorities in all London boroughs that disabled people are exempt from paying the bedroom tax.

Inclusion London full response is available below:

More information about the London Assembly’s inquiry is available at: http://www.london.gov.uk/