Renters Rights Bill welcome, but “clear plan” needed to help struggling households
National Debtline responds to the King's Speech.
Posted July 17, 2024
The Money Advice Trust has welcomed the new Government’s decision to introduce a Renters Rights Bill, a move it says will protect renters struggling with their bills through the removal of no-fault evictions and providing avenues to challenge unaffordable rent rises.
However, the charity is calling for urgent action to help households struggling with the fallout of high costs, including targeted support for people with unaffordable energy arrears and urgent reform of the Universal Credit deductions process to ensure people on the lowest incomes aren’t pushed into financial difficulty.
Findings from the Money Advice Trust show that 6.8 million people are struggling to pay for essentials, like rent and energy, despite falling inflation.
Matt Hartley, director of engagement at the Money Advice Trust, the charity behind National Debtline and Business Debtline said:
“The Government is right to prioritise the Renters Rights Bill, which will ensure renters struggling with their finances are protected from unfair eviction.
“However, with 6.8 million people struggling to pay for essentials, we also need to see a clear plan to help people afford the basics, including improving support under Universal Credit.
“And while the aim of approving affordability in the energy market longer-term is welcome, energy arrears levels are already at record highs. What’s needed now is support for people dealing with unmanageable energy debts through a Help to Repay scheme.”
National Debtline provides free, independent, expert advice. Contact National Debtline for free on 0808 808 4000 or via www.nationaldebtline.org.
