Lib Dems have slammed Government cuts to funding which supports the most vulnerable in society. This month, the government cut the funds to councils for Discretionary Housing Payment from £140 million to £40 million.
Tim Farron MP, Local Government Spokesman said: “As prices rocket, so many families will find themselves simply unable to afford the rent, to feed their families or both. Councils can help people in extreme circumstances to keep a roof over their heads and food on the table through discretionary payments, so for the government to cut those payments by 40% is a heartless act especially at this moment. I implore ministers to rethink this awful decision.'
Cllr Joe Harris, Leader of the Liberal Democrats at the Local Government Association, said: “This risks more people being made homeless, due to rent arrears. With the cost of living increasing to an all-time high those on low incomes are going to struggle to meet not just their rent, but utilities and other bills”.