Christmas Is Cancelled Say Cornish Universal Credit Demonstrators

Campaigners in Cornwall say; 'Christmas is cancelled'... thanks to benefits cuts and delays.

The Unite Community Cornwall branch is holding a protest in Truro on Saturday, as they act against Universal Credit.

They say those applying for it will now not receive any financial support in time for Christmas - affecting around 150 families in the Liskeard area, before rolling out to the rest of Cornwall in the new year.

And they report that some people have even lost their homes because of it.

It is part of a new system which pulls together 'in work benefits' - such as tax credits with unemployment and sickness benefits and housing benefit.

However, those fighting it claim it has been widely condemned by organisations dealing with people in crisis such as Citizens Advice and food banks thanks to the poor rollout and implementation.

Chair of Unite Community Cornwall Zoe Fox said: ''This disastrous policy must be stopped - all the data shows it is causing huge suffering and is very unfair.

"People have lost their homes where this has been introduced. Some local families will be left with no money over Christmas.

"It is heartless and cruel. Here in Cornwall we will be particularly badly affected as so many are on low wages and zero hours contracts.

"What is more, changes to tax credits for self-employed people will see many small businesses sent to the wall.

The branch is now organising one of several events nationally as part of the national day of action against Universal Credit.

The protest took place on Lemon Quay, Truro on Saturday from 11 am, and will include singing and mince pies.

There will also be information and support for those who will be affected by Universal Credit and food items will be collected for CPR 'transformation' Food Bank.