The rollout of flagship welfare reform Universal Credit is almost complete in Suffolk and north Essex – with every district due to be phased in by January 2019.
People living in Suffolk Coastal, Bury St Edmunds, Newmarket and Chelmsford are among the last to receive the benefit – while others, such as those in Sudbury and Waveney, have had it for nearly a year.
Its introduction has already triggered warnings from foodbanks, debt advisors and politicians.
Just this morning former Tory prime minister Sir John Major warned the scheduled national roll-out would lead to “chaos” similar to that of the poll tax in 1990.
He told the BBC Universal Credit was “impeccable” and “entirely logical” in theory, but called for its implementation to be considered.
Now, as we head into winter, we want to know how it has affected you.
Share your experiences with us – positive or negative – by commenting below, emailing emily.townsend@archant.co.uk or using the form below.
What is Universal Credit?
Universal Credit is a payment to help with living costs – it is paid monthly, or twice a month for some people in Scotland.
Those on a low income, or out of work, may be able to receive it.
According to government chiefs, whether you can claim Universal Credit depends on where you live, and your circumstances.
If you already get benefits, it will replace the following:
• Child tax credit
• Housing benefit
• Income support
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
• Working tax credit
Payments are made up of a standard allowance and any extra amounts that apply, for instance if claimants have children, a disability or health condition preventing them from working, or need help paying their rent.
For more details, visit the government’s website.
READ MORE: Foodbank demand hits all-time high in wake of Universal Credit rolloutWhen will it affect you?
Braintree – October 25, 2017
Bury St Edmunds – December 12, 2018
Chelmsford – December 5, 2018
Clacton – July 25, 2018
Colchester – July 4, 2018
Ipswich – April 25, 2018
Mid Suffolk (inc. Stowmarket) – May 9, 2018
Newmarket – December 12, 2018
Sudbury – October 18, 2017
Suffolk Coastal (inc. Woodbridge, Felixstowe, Aldeburgh) – October 17, 2018
Waveney (inc. Southwold) – October 18, 2017
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