New report from the Trussell Trust and Heriot Watt University:
Policy implications
It is clear from the findings of this study that, to address the problems of hunger in the UK
today, a number of key areas will need to be addressed, including:
• The general level of working age benefits and their erosion through the
benefits freeze and cuts to entitlements
• Problems with Universal Credit, particularly the five week wait
• The benefit sanctions regime and assessments for health, disability, and
work capability
• Rules on deductions from benefits, including the rate of repayments
• The availability of key worker support for adults with complex needs at
high risk of destitution
• Stronger emergency local welfare provision, driven by minimum
standards – particularly in England.
