Chancellor Failed to Protect the Most Vulnerable: Post Spring Budget Comments from Chief Executive of Daughters of Charity Services

Today’s Spring Budget was a missed opportunity to support some of the poorest and most vulnerable people across the UK. 

Support for Low-Income Families 

Whilst many hard-working people will appreciate the reduction in National Insurance, this measure will disproportionately benefit high-income earners. We are disappointed by the lack of prioritisation here - the money lost in tax revenue would be better targeted at those who cannot afford to feed, house or clothe their families. 

Extending the Household Support Fund for 6 months, and increasing the repayment period for budgeting advance loans from 12 months to 24 months are welcome interventions, yet offer only temporary relief. We need long-term, sustainable plans to address the poverty and hardship affecting millions of people across the UK.  

Support our Social Care System 

We are extremely concerned that there was no mention of any further funding for adult social care. There is a desperate need for substantial government investment into the sector. A new report by Daughters of Charity Services, which will be released in the coming months, shows a majority of social care organisations agree that more government funding is necessary to pull the sector out of its dire situation. We urge the government to set forth an achievable pathway that will enable social care organisations to continue to meet the critical needs of vulnerable people.  

Support for Homeless People 

The absence of a clear strategy to address the rise in homelessness is also of concern. With nearly 140,000 children now homeless in the UK, according to Shelter, the government cannot afford to ignore the housing crisis. We called for an increase in funding available to services working to tackle homelessness, and to local councils through the Rough Sleeping Initiative. Without this, charities and councils will be unable to help families put a roof over their heads. 

It is devastating to see so many struggling people come to our services unable to afford the essentials or access the care they need. Ahead of the general election, we urge all political parties to put the poorest and most vulnerable people at the heart of their plans.