Although the benefit system and those claiming from it have been a contentious issue here in the UK, the fact remains that benefits allow individuals to have the independence and dignity that they deserve. In some circumstances, benefits can prevent individuals and families from becoming homeless.
Navigating the benefits system when facing homelessness is difficult. In fact, it’s almost impossible for some. Support here is vital, and it’s one of the things that the team here at Simon on the Streets can help with.
The stereotypes and misconceptions
First things first, let’s break down the assumption that all people who are homeless are receiving benefits. It’s a common misconception. Yes, they’re a lifeline for some - and rightly so - but not everyone facing homelessness has access to them, and nor are they the answer to every problem that they face.
Although you don’t need a bank account or a fixed address to be entitled to benefits, there are still obstacles out there, and not having a bank account is certainly one of them.
Education and awareness surrounding this topic is essential if we want to break down the stereotypes and the complex cycle that is homelessness. Assumptions about homelessness only stand to feed into harmful prejudice, and ultimately, it’s counterproductive to progress.
Housing benefits
As we’re living through a massive shortage in social housing and private rental properties, it’s highly likely that we’ll see an increase in the number of people requiring access to housing benefits. These benefits help to cover the cost of rent if you’re unemployed, claiming other benefits or on a low income.
The government is keen to move everyone on housing benefits to Universal Credit by April 2025, and how this will change things remains to be seen. As it stands, it’s a complicated system.
You’re eligible to make a new claim for housing benefit if:
- You live in a hostel or refuge for those facing homelessness
- Live in certain types of supported housing
- You live in emergency or temporary housing following a homeless application
- You’ve reached state pension age
For more information, take a look at the government website. They cover some really useful guidance around who can and can’t receive housing benefits.
Universal credit
In most cases, Universal Credit is paid monthly and is available for people who are in work, and those who aren’t.
You’re eligible if you meet the following criteria:
- You’re aged 18 or over
- You have a low income
- You have less than £16,000 in a savings account
- You meet certain immigration and residence conditions
Sometimes, people are entitled to additional payments depending on their circumstances. Shelter have created a concise and helpful guide for those who can claim benefits. You can find it here.
Why our outreach work is vital
Lots of individuals face barriers and challenges that prevent them from accessing benefits. One important way in which we help those facing homelessness is supporting them to make applications to relevant services and benefits.
Finding your feet after becoming homeless isn’t easy. Some of our clients have a lack of confidence, literacy problems or difficulty getting back into employment after being out of work for some time.
Take a look at Jack’s story, who we met on outreach last year:
“Last year, we met Jack (name changed) on outreach. We found him very visibly distressed as he hadn’t received his Universal Credit for over two months.
It became apparent to our team that Jack couldn’t read or write, as he had letters from the post office explaining that they needed somewhere to send his money to, but he was unable to understand what the letters said.
With our support, we helped Jack understand his letters and give his new details to the bank. He later received his money.”
Follow us on our social channels to read more of the stories of people we’ve supported.
There are lots of people that face unique and significant challenges whilst homeless, challenges that prevent them from accessing the support they desperately need.
If you’d like to help us to continue providing emotional and practical support to individuals like Jack, find out how you can get involved.