Responding to the UK Government’s Comprehensive Spending Review, John Pritchard, policy manager at Shelter Cymru, said:
“We won’t know the full impact of the spending review on Wales until the Welsh government publishes its budget in November. However, we do know that while the drastic cuts to welfare benefits are the decision of the UK government, it will fall largely on the Welsh government and its partners in local authorities, housing associations, charities and the broader housing sector to deal with the fall-out.
“The cuts will hit most households in Wales, but will hit the poorest people the hardest. Discussions about spending must take into account that the cuts already announced are likely to lead to increased homelessness, housing need and poverty. The Assembly should ensure that these frontline services are protected and able to deal with the subsequent rise in demand for advice and support services.
“The toxic combination of rising unemployment and welfare cuts will mean that independent advice services are more important than ever to ensure that people in difficult situations get the help and support they need to maintain a decent home.
“Amid the many competing pressures on public finances, the Welsh government must maintain its commitment to provide decent homes. With the acute lack of affordable homes to rent or buy, this is not a luxury to be put on hold until the economy picks up. It is in itself a major driver of economic and social regeneration and every pound invested represents investment in jobs, training, skills, local economies and communities.”
