The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced Universal Credit payments will rise in line with increasing living costs.
An annual rise in April 2023 will happen alongside other increases affecting personal independence payments and housing benefits, the MEN reports. Those claiming Universal Credit have certainly felt the squeeze this year, with some reporting having to skip meals, or being unable to turn the heating on.
Despite a one-off cost of living payment being dished out to millions across the country, many of those depending on benefits are struggling to keep up with the rising cost of gas, petrol and produce at supermarkets.
READ MORE: DWP's £326 cost-of-living payment could be delayed for two groups of claimants
A minister at the DWP stated that confirmation of increased Universal Credit payments will not happen until November. Parliamentary under-secretary for the DWP David Rutley responded to a written question which asked the government to review benefit payments, taking into account the expected increase of the energy price cap, the Mirror reports.
MP David Rutley said in response the DWP Secretary is "required to undertake an annual statutory review of benefits and pensions" but there were no plans to bring the review forward, "her review will commence in the autumn and her decisions will be announced to Parliament in November in the normal way."
He also confirmed the increase would either be in line with inflation, earnings, or maybe higher than both. He added: "The Secretary of State must increase certain benefits by at least the increase in prices or earnings.
"If she considers it appropriate, having regard to the national economic situation and any other matters which she considers relevant, she may increase others by such a percentage(s) as she thinks fit."
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