Action needed to prevent homelessness caused by UK benefits cap
Patrick Harvie MSP, Co-convener of the Scottish Greens, today (12 Jan) used First Minister's Questions to call for action to prevent an increase in poverty and homelessness caused by the Westminster Government's benefits cap.
Mr Harvie highlighted the fact that the Scottish Government does not have accurate data on the problem. It first thought 4,000 households could be affected, yet some estimates have suggested up to 11,000 households could be hit.
Mr Harvie went on to highlight the opportunity to use new powers over social security to top-up reserved benefits such as Child Benefit, as a way to prevent more children falling into poverty.
Following FMQs, Patrick said:
"The Westminster Government's heartless benefit cap cuts £6,000 per household with no regard to the fact that vulnerable members of our society face huge housing costs.
"It’s just one example of why we need to see stronger anti-poverty measures in the Scottish Government’s budget. With new powers over social security - such as topping up reserved benefits - Holyrood has a chance to help the people most in need.
"I trust the Scottish Government understands the need to properly assess the impact of the benefit cap, and I welcome the First Minister's offer to discuss further the option of topping up Child Benefit."
Sheffield Hallam research suggests 11,000 Scottish households could be affected by the benefit cap