Disabled people on ‘legacy’ benefits (Employment and Support Allowance, Jobseeker’s Allowance and Income Support) are losing out on government support during the coronavirus crisis, a new report has found.
The Joseph Rowntree Foundation, an independent social change organisation working to solve UK poverty, has issued a new report, called The Financial Impact of Covid-19 on Disabled People and Their Carers.
It states that: “The £20-a-week uplift to Universal Credit has been a lifeline for millions of people during the coronavirus pandemic, but people on legacy benefits have been unjustly excluded from this vital financial support so far. This briefing shows why throwing this same lifeline to people on legacy benefits is the right thing to do.
It explains:
- how disabled people’s financial circumstances have become even more precarious during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- the rising costs disabled people face.
- the reduction in their incomes and the heightened challenges they face in the labour market
- the impact that extending the lifeline would have for people on legacy benefits.
Meanwhile Sheffield City Council says there is a low uptake for their Covid-19 Emergency Assistance Grant and is urging people to apply. The award is for anyone who is having difficulties paying for food and other essentials due to Covid-19 or is indirectly affected eg someone who you rely on is not able to provide you with essential support.
You can apply for the grant online here and if you need support to apply you can call the council on their dedicated helpline number on 0114 273 4567 .
