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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Athena Stavrou

Stigma blamed as £24bn in benefits and support goes unclaimed

  • A new report reveals that over seven million households in the UK are missing out on £24 billion worth of financial support from unclaimed benefits and social tariffs.
  • The research, conducted by Policy in Practice, said the primary reasons are a lack of awareness, the complexity of the application process, and the social stigma associated with receiving benefits.
  • Universal Credit, Council Tax Support, and Carer’s Allowance account for the highest unclaimed monetary amounts.
  • Broadband social tariffs and water discounts see the largest number of missed claims.
  • Policy in Practice is urging urgent action to simplify the social security system and improve access, while the government says it is both promoting benefits and helping people into secure jobs.

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