Latest News

Ending of the Universal Credit Uplift

Published: 13/10/2021

Cabinet members will be asked to consider the detrimental affects a change by UK Government in Universal Credit will have on Flintshire residents when they meet later this month.

On 20 March 2020 the UK Government announced the equivalent of a £20 per week increase to the Universal Credit standard allowance basic element worth up to £1,040 for one year for those facing the most financial disruption as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite Welsh Government expressing concern about the end of the Universal Credit uplift, the uplift officially ended on 6 October 2021.

The Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Corporate Management and Assets, Councillor Billy Mullin, said:

“Over 13,000 residents in Flintshire receive Universal Credit and I am disappointed by the UK Government’s decision to end the uplift which means that each resident affected will lose over £1,000 per year.

This is a significant reduction in monthly income that will impact our residents in varying degrees.  I am concerned that our most vulnerable residents who are already in a financially challenging position will be further impacted by this decision”.

Neal Cockerton, Chief Officer, Housing & Assets, said:

“Data demonstrates that the Council is expecting to see negative impacts in relation to Council Tax Reduction Scheme expenditure and there is a real risk that more people in Flintshire will fall into fuel poverty; food poverty and rent arrears.

The UK Government’s decision will present a challenging financial position for local residents and the Council.  Arrangements have been put in place with the Department for Work and Pensions to ensure referrals from the Job Centre Plus to local support agencies including our Welfare Reform Team”

I encourage residents who may be affected to seek support from local agencies and the Welfare Reform Team."

The Welfare Reform Team can be contacted at wrrt@flintshire.gov.uk or 01352 704848.