New study reveals housing benefit shortfalls in Gwynedd, predicting a rise in child poverty as families struggle with rent.
The IPPR did the analysis, stating that welfare changes have hurt families. More families rent privately now because not enough social housing exists. All this makes child poverty worse.
The government sets housing benefit rates, calling it Local Housing Allowance. It’s based on local rent costs, helping people pay private landlords. People getting Universal Credit can use it.
But IPPR says rates are too low, causing many homes to be unaffordable. This increases child poverty a lot. The report notes that 49% of Gwynedd families struggle. They have kids and receive housing help.
Across the UK, problems also persist. About 440,000 families can’t cover rent, and rates could stay flat in April next year. This will affect even more families soon; almost a million kids might be impacted.
The IPPR wants the government to act, calling for the benefit cap to be removed. Building more social homes is also crucial because a secure home matters for kids. Insecurity and high rents cause instability.
The IPPR sees regional differences too. Wales has big rent payment gaps, while Scotland fares better. East Lothian has the fewest shortfalls, however Neath Port Talbot has a high rate.
The government says they fight poverty, giving funds to local councils. This money supports people with housing. They also raise benefits and wages, aiming to help kids get a good start.