Over the last two years I have run the Tenants Voice project for Z2K, working with renters at the ‘sharp end’ of the Private Rented Sector (PRS) – those reliant on benefits or on very low incomes, living in tiny, cramped spaces, and often in unfit conditions, subject to exploitation, aggression, and discrimination by landlords, and with very little way of fighting back.
The team at Z2K, as well as hundreds of law firms, chambers, and other supporters of access to justice took part in the 10k #LegalWalk on Monday 18th October. Our team consisted of staff and trustees, who took to the streets of London to raise vital funds for access to justice charities, including Z2K.
Preeti reflects on the work she has done with her clients over the last 7 months and why the DWP must urgently review and reform it’s processes so that everyone can live safely and be treated with dignity and respect.
Our clients face a diversity of challenges when engaging with the social security system, but one issue that almost all have experienced, is that of stigma. In this blog, a number of our clients share the conversations that we’ve been having about stigma in our client workshops – in particular, what forms stigma can take and why it must be challenged.
For many people, reliance on minimal benefits or very low wages makes it impossible to save up a deposit, and even for those who manage to save, few landlords accept tenants on benefits. In other words, you are trapped where you are – no matter the state of the property.
In the wake of the pandemic, more money than ever is being overpaid under the Universal Credit (UC) system. Blunt rule changes to the recoverability of overpayments mean that people are being saddled with debt as a result of structural deficiencies and delays in the decision-making process. As Z2K’s casework highlights, this leaves people in vulnerable circumstances in an impossible situation.
If you’re battling with housing, disability or welfare issues, there are many ways we could help you. Alternatively if someone you know needs our help you can refer them to us
