Housing Benefit Cuts in Bristol

bristol | community | event notice Wednesday May 02, 2012 16:12 by Bristol Poverty Action

Recent news from the London boroughs is a sign of what’s about to hit Bristol.  Thousands will be directly affected by the Housing Benefit cuts – and everyone will feel the effects of the resulting social dislocation.  But there’s a chance on Friday 18th May to hear the personal experience of people in the firing line, and a chance for everyone to contribute practical ideas for a solution.

The cuts mean that about 7,500 private rented homes in Bristol will no longer be available to benefit
claimants.  Around 6,500 private tenants will face a typical reduction of £15 to £25 per week in benefit, while a
further 900 single people under the age of 35 will lose on average £40 per week.  Tenants may be driven to cut back on food or heating to pay the rent, but this will not be sustainable in the long term.

The issue has become such a political football that the voices of those directly affected have scarcely
been heard.  Bristol Poverty Action is providing a forum on 18th May for people facing the full impact of the cuts to
explain how their lives are being changed.  Five or six such individuals will each share their experience – and then
small group discussions will allow everyone to share ideas on where we go next.  This is definitely not a party
political forum.

The aim of the Hearing is to raise awareness of the hardship caused by the Housing Benefit cuts and to
consider what can be done in practical terms to help people at risk of homelessness.  The audience of 200 will
include landlords, employers, MPs, councillors, the media, advice workers, housing organisations, charitable trusts and members of the public.

Bristol Poverty Action was formed for the sole purpose of organising this event, with a steering group that
includes representatives of Bristol Citizens Advice Bureau, the Advice Network, CHAS (Bristol) and Redland Friends Meeting.  It is non-partisan and has no political affiliation. 

The Hearing takes place on Friday 18th May, 7.30–9.30pm at the Council House on College Green, Bristol BS1
5TR.  Entrance is free but places are limited, and should be booked by contacting h.saunders@clara.co.uk.  Further information is available at http://bristolpovertyaction.wordpress.com.