Supported Housing costs when HB/UC is in pay to client

Hi There,

I work in secondary care services in the NHS and wanted an opinion on an issue.

The client concerned is residing in supported accommodation and their housing costs of £1,200 are currently covered by HB, the client is in receipt of UC in relation to their standard allowance.

They are considering doing an apprenticeship, so my question is any earnings would be deducted from their UC as this is the passported benefit and their HB to cover the housing costs would remain in pay. The move into paid work wouldn’t trigger a change in circumstances whereby the HB would cease or would it?

I haven’t come across this issue, previously so wanted to check if anyone else had. I’ve had a look at CPAG and DRH but would appreciate any further clarification.

Thanks.

His wages are looked at in relation to his UC. Provided that the UC is not reduced to nil, it continues to passport him to full HB. I would not think that wages on an apprenticeship would be high enough for this to be a concern.

Hi Elliott,

Thanks for the response - it is appreciated.

Elliot Kent - 16 February 2024 03:39 PM

I would not think that wages on an apprenticeship would be high enough for this to be a concern.

On reflection this might be a little optimistic. If he is only getting the standard allowance and has no LCW for a work allowance then his UC could be nilled even by wages of c. £700 pcm (less if he is under 25).

I would have thought if he is in supported housing, he is likely to have LCW - but you will want to do the sums in any case.