Universal credit is a ‘huge concern’
Friends running a computer drop-in centre report 'huge concern' about Universal Credit
A computer drop-in centre set up and run by Cornwall Friends has reported ‘huge concern’ about the switch to Universal Credit.
Alison Meaton, from Penzance Meeting, who set up the ‘Computer Drop-In’ in Penzance with Mike Berris, from Marazion Meeting, told the Friend that the new system of Universal Credit is causing stress among claimants and putting increased pressure on volunteers.
She said: ‘We are one of the last areas for people on benefits to switch to Universal Credit. Claimants are facing big problems changing to the new system. We are having extra training from Cornwall council on how to switch over, and we have also applied for funding from the Co-op Community Fund and Marazion Town Council. We need more computers. We bought two new laptops, but the others are very slow.’
The service, based at ‘Breadline’, the homeless ‘hub’ run by St Petroc’s Society, was established after a Quaker concern about the problem of homelessness in the Penzance area.
The group runs for two-and-a-half hours every week, and is staffed by nine volunteers, including five Quakers.
Alison Meaton said that claimants need to show they have accessed the online ‘government gateway’ or may face sanctions.
She explained: ‘These days being able to access computers is so important to claim benefits and stay in touch with families.’
