The end of Universal Credit top up will impact families says local charity

A TOP up to Universal Credit (UC) of £20 to support those in need during the Covid pandemic is set to end this autumn and local charity, Crosspoint, says the move will make life even more challenging for families who are already struggling. 

Kevin Fairman of Crosspoint, the Westbury-based community focussed support centre said, “A significant number of people we see at Crosspoint are finding it difficult to make ends meet. 

“The pandemic has made the situation much worse, with people losing their jobs. A £20 reduction in family income will inevitably have an adverse impact and is likely to put additional financial and emotional pressures on people who are already finding life a challenge. 

“This comes at a time when average pay and pensions are increasing at, or above, the rate of inflation. A poor example of the stated Government policy of ‘levelling up’.”  

According to government statistics there are 113 people in Westbury that are claiming Universal Credit who are seeking employment, with a further 89 already in work, but are not earning above the national average.