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Why are UK benefit cuts causing hardship?
The UK government has reduced the health element of Universal Credit, cutting payments by over £200 for new claimants. At the same time, inflation and rising energy bills are increasing household expenses. These combined factors make it harder for vulnerable families to cover essentials like food, housing, and healthcare.
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How are rising energy bills affecting households?
Energy prices have surged due to global market changes and increased demand, leading to higher bills for households across the UK and Australia. Many families are struggling to keep up with these costs, which eat into their budgets and leave less money for other essentials.
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What’s the impact of inflation in the UK and Australia?
Inflation has risen to around 3.4% in the UK, and similar trends are seen in Australia. This means prices for food, housing, and other essentials are increasing faster than wages, reducing purchasing power and making everyday living more expensive for many families.
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Are governments doing enough to help struggling families?
There is ongoing debate about whether current government support is sufficient. While some reforms aim to improve fiscal sustainability, critics argue that benefit cuts and rising costs are deepening inequality and hardship for vulnerable groups.
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How do benefit cuts affect low-income families?
Benefit cuts reduce the financial support available to low-income families, making it harder to pay for basic needs. This can lead to increased debt, food insecurity, and housing instability, especially when costs of living are rising rapidly.
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What can families do to cope with rising costs?
Families can look for additional support programs, cut non-essential expenses, and seek financial advice. Community resources and charities may also offer assistance to those struggling with bills and essentials during these challenging times.