Keeping the Universal Credit uplift is vital to protect the nation's health Health Foundation response to Resolution Foundation research showing financial impact of the pandemic on new Universal Credit claimants

Responding to Resolution Foundation research, supported by the Health Foundation, showing that three in ten new Universal Credit claimants have seen their debts grow during the crisis, David Finch, Senior Fellow at the Health Foundation, said: 

‘Today’s findings highlight the financial strain felt by millions of families in the UK despite the significant support the government has already put into place.  People’s health and incomes are inextricably linked, the stress of rising debts and reduced income are likely to lead to poorer mental health and wellbeing. With restrictions likely for much of 2021 these pressures on finances are only likely to increase with long-lasting consequences for people’s health and wellbeing.

‘It is vital that the government protects the nation’s health by keeping the Universal Credit uplift, and there is strong public backing to do so –  our recent polling with Ipsos Mori found that the majority (59%) of the public support making the increase permanent, while only 20% are against.’

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Simon Perry
Simon.Perry@health.org.uk