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.
Being of a younger generation and with English as my first language, I am aware of my privilege in being able to navigate a life dictated and shaped by the internet, and computer literacy. Since Covid-19, the necessity to be digitally adept has only increased. However, without the adequate education and provision of resources to ensure digital access for everyone, the benefits system and local authority services remain unfit for purpose.
Disabled people left feeling suicidal and in physical pain by discriminatory and degrading benefits process, research reveals
As part of our work profiling the voices of tenants in the Private Rented Sector (PRS), Katarina tells a story of mistreatment, disrespect, and lack of compassion from landlords who know the power they have over her
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
