Universal Credit

• Universal Credit

  One way the government have responded to inequality is through universal credit.

  This was introduced in 2012 and is a weekly sum of money paid to those in difficult circumstances such as being unemployed or on low income. The goal of this is to fill the growing gap between those on low and high income.
• Universal Credit - EXAMPLE & ANALYSIS

  In March 2021, the number of UC claimeat peaked at 6 million, and by January 2022 this figure had fallen by 5.7%.

  This shows that this government measure has been somewhat effective as the falling number shows how Universal Credit has allowed some people to obtain jobs and maintain a stable income.
• Universal Credit - REBUTTAL

  Many people argue that Universal Credit is not enough for a family to live off of.

  This means that, often, families with parents who are trying to increase their income and become employed are falling further bellow the poverty line as universal credit is not sustainable.
• Universal Credit - REBUTTAL (EXAMPLES & ANALYSIS)

  After 24 months of universal credit, foodbank use increased by 48%.

  This shows that UC is not providing enough to allow people to purchase neccessities and puts pressure on foodbanks, charities and non-government funded organisations to bridge the gap.
• Universal Credit - EVALUATION

  Therefore, despite providing people with economic support until they are able to improve their financial situation or find employment, the money given through UC is not sustainable enough and is not effective at tackling inequality because many families remain in, or are plunged further into, poverty.