This page contains information and updates from Newcastle City Council about the cost of living crisis in the UK.
Universal basic income trialled
A universal basic income is reportedly set to be trialled in two places in England for the first time as part of a pilot programme proposed by think tank Autonomy. Thirty people will be paid a lump sum of £1,600 a month without conditions for two years and observed to understand the impact of their lives. The Guardian: Universal basic income of £1,600 a month to be trialled in two places in England.
New Cost of Living Payments from Spring 2023
Low income households across the UK get up to £1,350 from the Government in 2023/4 to help with the cost of living. Exact payment windows will be announced closer to the time but are spread across a longer period to ensure a consistent support offering throughout the year. They will be broadly as follows:
• £301 – First Cost of Living Payment – during Spring 2023
• £150 – Disability Cost of Living Payment – during Summer 2023
• £300 – Second Cost of Living Payment – during Autumn 2023
• £300 – Pensioner Cost of Living Payment – during Winter 2023/4
• £299 – Third Cost of Living Payment – during Spring 2024
Those eligible will be paid automatically, and there will be no need to apply. For more information, please visit GOV.UK.
Scam warning
As people continue to struggle with the cost of living crisis, there are increasing reports of scams which are trying to exploit the crisis. Examples of these scams include emails and text messages which include the promise of energy rebates and government grants encouraging people to apply for “a cost of living payment”, mimicking genuine support packages.
Action Fraud have released guidance tips on how to protect yourself and others against scams:
• If you have any doubts about a message, contact the organisation directly
• Don’t use the numbers or address in the message – use the details from their official website. Remember, banks (or any other official source) will never ask for personal information via email
• If you (or someone who you are supporting) has received an email which you’re not quite sure about, forward it to report@phishing.gov.uk. Report emails that feel suspicious, even if you’re not certain they’re a scam – Action Fraud can check
• Follow the Take Five to Stop Fraud advice:
o STOP: Taking a moment to stop and think before parting with money or information
o CHALLENGE: Could it be fake? It’s ok to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic someone
o PROTECT: Encourage people to contact their bank immediately if you think they’ve fallen for a scam and report it to Action Fraud
Accurate information about support schemes can be found on the Cost of Living Payment – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) webpage.
Cost of living support toolkit
The Government is providing a £37 billion package of support to help households combat the rising cost of living. Ensuring that people are aware of what financial help they are entitled to is paramount during this cost of living crisis. The Government have produced a toolkit for stakeholders, which includes downloadable posters, social media copy and newsletters for organisations to use. These communication aids will provide information about the different types of payment, eligibility, and when people should expect to receive the cash. Further information is online: help with the cost of living.
If you, or someone you are supporting, is worried about the cost of living crisis visit our cost of living webpage for information about the advice and support available.
For more about the support Newcastle Futures offer, click here.
Updated: 13.06.2023
