Agenda item - Welfare Reform Changes

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22.1    Ododo Dafe presented the report on Welfare Reform Changes stating that universal credit will be introduced next month and that it is likely to initially have a significant impact on a small number of people. She noted that Universal credit will now only be available to people over 21.

22.2    Heather Hayes stated computer illiteracy will be a problem. She enquired if BHCC will begin a specialist team to tackle this large issue.

22.3    Ododo Dafe stated that some people with specific disabilities can be exempt also some officers are involved in a project to look at getting volunteers to help others. She noted that there are more disadvantages to not being able to use the internet.

22.4    Rachel Chasseaud stated that there is free internet access at libraries around Brighton and Hove.

22.5    Tracey Cox in terms of online literacy, libraries are going to be at full capacity. She enquired how this is going to work.

22.6    Councillor Meadows stated that there are ongoing efforts to assess the impact on tenants and to create a policy for the future designed to enable them to live a life where they can be supported.

22.7    Peter O’Connor stated that many people will be a week in arrears rent by no fault of their own.

22.8    Ododo Dafe stated that as universal credit comes in, single jobseekers will be first. She noted in regards to free internet access; an effort via secured funding to provide more training hours at places like the Whitehawk inn, the Bridge, Hangleton and Knoll Centre and other areas is being undertaken.

22.9    RESOLVED – That the report be noted.