LGA responds to Coronavirus welfare funding boost

“Restoring LHA rates to cover at least the lowest third of market rents will deliver more of the security that tenants need during this coronavirus crisis"

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Responding to plans by the Chancellor to invest £7 billion into the welfare system – including the lifting of the Local Housing Allowance rates – Cllr Richard Watts, Chair of the Local Government Association’s Resources Board, said:

“The LGA has long-called for a lifting of Local Housing Allowance rates to address the growing gap between income and rents. It is great the Chancellor has acted today.

“Restoring LHA rates to cover at least the lowest third of market rents will deliver more of the security that tenants need during this coronavirus crisis and support households who need help to meet their housing costs.

“Alongside the additional resources that have been announced for Universal Credit and the welfare benefits system, this will play an important role in relieving pressure on local services and hardship support at this crucial time.”