The Budget dealt low-paid workers a poor hand, and its punitive cuts must be challenged, says UNISON

Working people on low incomes got a rough deal from the government last week, and no amount of dressing up of the new ‘living’ wage can mask the fact that poorer families will be much worse off, says UNISON.

Commenting on the changes to tax credits – which the Institute for Fiscal Studies says will leave some families with young children up to £1,000 a year worse off – UNISON General Secretary Dave Prentis said:

“Cleaners, teaching assistants, clerical workers, hospital porters and other public servants – lots of them women and part-time workers – are dependent on tax credits to top up their wages. Many also have to rely on family and friends, credit cards andeven the occasional food bank to get by. 

“At first glance the Chancellor’s new ‘living’ wage may have looked attractive. But last week’s Budget was really about the government giving low-paid workers a £4bn pay rise with one hand, and snatching £12bn in much-needed social security with the other.

“The Budget dealt low-paid workers and their families a poor hand. Those who already have little are now being asked to pay much more than their fair share towards getting rid of the deficit.

“Many more children will be pushed into a life of poverty by the government’s indefensible welfare changes, and that cannot be right. It must be challenged.”

UNISON media contacts:

Liz Chinchen T: 0207 121 5463 M: 07778 158175 E: l.chinchen@unison.co.uk

Fatima Ayad T: 0207 121 5255 M: 07508 080383 E: f.ayad@unison.co.uk