From Mr Stephen
Davies
Sir, - I was interested in
your article by Jonathan Bartley (Comment, 5 April).
With regard to the so-called "bedroom tax", claimants can apply for
a discretional housing payment to help alleviate the loss of
benefit so long as they are prepared to go on the housing register
for a smaller property. Also, this measure is only for claimants of
working age. Claimants are encouraged to take lodgers, with the
first £20 of rental income being disregarded with regard to their
benefits.
The main bone of contention
which we are noticing in our benefits section is the change from
council-tax benefit to council-tax support. In our borough, all
working-age claimants are having to pay 20 per cent towards their
council tax, unless they qualify for the severe disability premium
or enhanced disability premium.
It is a significant burden
for those on benefits, and when claimants are getting only £71.70
per week, to find £5 per week for the council. Not surprisingly,
some refuse to pay.
Now the Government is
planning to change disability living allowance (DLA) to personal
independence payment (PIP), which will cause more anxiety and work.
I wish that they would just do one change per year; so that the
changes are introduced compassionately and with thought for all
concerned.
STEPHEN DAVIES
22 Hamble Walk, Woking
Surrey GU21 3PR