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Talk to your landlord – that’s the message from Muir Group resident Alison Greaves when it comes to questions surrounding Universal Credit.

 

Alison is one of the eight million people across the UK who are going to be affected by the biggest overhaul to the benefits system since the 1940s.

 

Allison, who lives at a Muir property in Nantwich, began receiving the Universal Credit earlier this year when she was forced to give up her job due to a change in her circumstances.

 

“It was a real eye-opener for me,” Alison said.

 

“Because I had a change in my circumstances, I had to relocate and give up my job. Up until then I had always worked and I had very little experience with the benefits.

 

“After several months I was back in employment and I had to notify the DWP. The system had changed and I was required to complete a Universal Credit application. They said it would take 5 weeks for this new process to be completed and to receive my first payment. That was a very difficult time for me.

 

“Through no fault of my own, I was in arrears with my housing rent. I spoke to Muir they were very understanding – I told them I would pay it all once my money came in. I also set up a standing order so that I don’t have to worry about the payment of my rent in the future. I know as soon as I get my Universal Credit payment, a significant part of that will go towards my rent.

 

“I think the whole principle of Universal Credit is much better – because you’re applying to one place, it’s done online and they will look at your circumstances to see what benefits you’re entitled to. It gives you peace of mind knowing exactly what you’re entitled to, and what you’re going to get. Previously, it was up to you to apply to different departments for different things, so I think it has definitely simplified the system.”

 

One of the biggest concerns surrounding Universal Credit is that, in a vast majority of cases, applications have to be made online.  This means access to the internet is essential, and Alison believes it is vital that residents receive the right support to help them adapt to the changes.

 

 Alison said: “I am fortunate in many ways because I am IT literate, and I am also able to access the internet at home and on my phone. However, I do understand this is not the case for a lot of people and they may be daunted by some of the changes.

 

“Even if you are able to access the internet, you are still going to struggle to complete your application if you haven’t got the IT skills. There is some telephone support, but it is minimal.

 

“Are the people who genuinely need help completing these forms going to be able to do it? Are they going to get the support they need? It’s a real concern.

 

 

“I think Muir and other housing providers have a massive role to play in terms of helping people adapt to the new system. If you are providing housing for people, then it is important that people know how to access the related services. If your landlord can provide you with the basic skills or the means to learn, or even provide you with internet access, then I think that will be a big help.”

 

And Alison, who is now training towards becoming a social worker, also stresses the importance of asking your landlord for help if you’re struggling to pay your rent.

 

 

She added: “The key thing is communication. As a resident, you have to keep your landlord informed about your circumstances and what is happening. If you don’t contact them, they may think you’ve missed a payment for other reasons.

 

“Muir have been very good in terms of the support and advice that they’ve given me. They were very understanding about how the Universal Credit process works and the fact that it would take several weeks for the payment to come through. I explained and kept them up to date in terms of what was happening, and they helped me set up a standing order

 

“At the end of the day, they are human beings and they will do their utmost to help you.

 

So the message is clear – don’t bury your head in the sand when it comes to Universal Credit. Muir has a dedicated team of Money Advisors who are on hand to help your in any way they can. If you’re struggling to pay your rent, or would like further advice regarding Universal Credit, then please call 0300 123 1222. All calls will be treated in confidence.