- Conference
- 2014 National Black Members' Conference
- Date
- 1 October 2013
- Decision
- Carried
Conference notes that the cuts in Housing Benefit and the imposition of the Bedroom Tax are forcing many Black families into a position of double jeopardy. Especially where it is alleged that there is under occupation in social housing homes. Black households are more likely to be housed in social housing and likely to be in low income brackets and of working age.
A sizeable number of Black families are part of extended family networks, both in the UK and abroad, especially for the new and emerging resident communities. And where they exist, the burden of looking after and being part of these extended families puts additional pressure on the household finances.
The impact of cuts and taxation is having a disproportionate impact on Black households compared to white families. There is some limited evidence to show that some households are choosing to live together to avoid the under occupation tax. Many households are making the difficult choice between buying essential housing goods or paying the rent.
We ask the National Black Members Committee to:
1)Work with the NEC to ensure each Local Authority and Social Housing provider is approached to monitor the impact Housing Benefit cuts and the Bedroom Tax is having on black members, their families and communities.
2)Ensure black members in UNISON are kept informed of progress through the use of all UNISON media and publications.
3)Consider the feasibility of running a campaign highlighting the above issues.