new 'under-occupancy' regulations

Has anyone had problems with regard to this?  My daughter had a visit from a council official to tell her that she would now have to either a) move to a 2 bed; b) pay over £300 per month extra for their home; or c) get a job !!!  Her three year old has severe autism: her two year old doesn't.  Putting them in a bedroom together would be a nightmare for all concerned as her sleep problems are also severe.  Apart from the expense, moving would also be a nightmare - not that the council has any 2 beds to offer her.  My daughter had to give up her last job with no notice as her childminder decided that she was too 'difficult' in her behaviours - so 'getting a job' would not be an option.  The only current exemption to this revision to current legislation is those aged over 61 (who are never 'under-occupied' - not!) whilst no-one with any type of disability is exempt.  I am sure this is discrimanatory.  This has recieved no publicity thus far.  Are you also falling foul of this change?  Please let me know!  I have written to my MP as I feel it morally wrong and I'm sure we should be able to ensure all those with eligible disabilities should not be disregarded in this way.

Parents
  • hi - yes, I've heard about this.  I don't think some people realise what's going to happen.  I think it's truly shocking + discriminatory.  If you also take into account the year on year on year cuts to council budgets (education, social care etc), yearly cuts in the nhs, prices rising, other services being slashed or disappearing altogether, the impression being given that all benefits claimants are "scroungers",  massive changes to the benefits system underway, shortages of affordable housing, etc, then I think we can see how badly it's affecting and will continue to affect those who need services the most.  There may be some info on this site or others sites such as the disability alliance.  V depressing. 

Reply
  • hi - yes, I've heard about this.  I don't think some people realise what's going to happen.  I think it's truly shocking + discriminatory.  If you also take into account the year on year on year cuts to council budgets (education, social care etc), yearly cuts in the nhs, prices rising, other services being slashed or disappearing altogether, the impression being given that all benefits claimants are "scroungers",  massive changes to the benefits system underway, shortages of affordable housing, etc, then I think we can see how badly it's affecting and will continue to affect those who need services the most.  There may be some info on this site or others sites such as the disability alliance.  V depressing. 

Children
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