Hereford Quakers concern on Universal Credit
Friends in Hereford are exploring how to help the local community when Universal Credit is introduced
Hereford Meeting are exploring how they can help in the introduction of the Universal Credit (UC) scheme.
The controversial all-in-one benefit was originally scheduled to be introduced in Hereford in March, but, as in many other areas, has now been delayed until June, in what critics call a ‘chaotic’ roll-out.
Jane Straker, a local Friend who wrote about the action in the February Hereford Quaker Newsletter, told the Friend that the concern arose after a talk when Quaker Alan Wheatley ‘gave us real insight into the problems associated with being a benefit claimant’.
She said: ‘The concern emerged as a matter of supporting him, and the other Friends, including the chronically ill, carers and the unemployed… who are going to be affected, as well as the wider hardship it can cause.’
Proposals being considered by Hereford Meeting include an advocacy service supporting claimants.
They are also exploring if there are ‘the Quaker funds’ to provide hardship assistance.
