Julian has welcomed the news that 1.6 million low-income households, including 67,000 across Yorkshire and the Humber, will have their Local Housing Allowance (LHA) increased as part of the Government’s targeted cost of living support measures.
Legislation being introduced to Parliament will increase the LHA, which calculates housing benefits, saving families an average of £800 in 2024-25.
Exceptionally high rents, caused by global inflationary pressures, mean housing support provided to many on the lowest incomes has become out of step with market rates. By raising the LHA rate to the thirtieth percentile of local market rents in April 2024, the Government will support over one million families to meet current costs.
£7 billion will be invested over the next five years to support 1.6 million private renters on Universal Credit or Housing Benefit across the UK.
Julian Smith said, “This announcement builds on the Government’s comprehensive cost of living support package, targeting help towards those who need it most amid the fight to keep inflation down and tackle higher energy bills.
“Increasing the LHA will mean more money in the pockets of households across Skipton and Ripon, ensuring the most vulnerable families are supported.”
