Christmas could be at risk due to universal credit, says union group

As a result, Unite hosted events in Brighton, Hastings and more than 80 other locations t as part of a National Day of Action Against Universal Credit.

In a recent survey of 1,141 people, the group found that 82 per cent had a negative view of the new benefit system.

Respondents raised issues over rent arrears and the fear of eviction.

Unite are using this study to call for a stop to the Universal Credit system.

The organisation’s community coordinator, Kelly Thomlinson, said: “As we head into winter, many claimants cannot afford warm clothing for themselves or their children and don’t have enough money to heat their homes. It will be a very bleak Christmas for thousands of families who are being abandoned by this government.”