Welfare reforms

AN URGENT meeting with local MP Alistair Carmichael to air grave concerns about the impact of the UK government’s welfare reforms on island claimants is being organised by Shetland Islands Council.

Convener Malcolm Bell has written to Carmichael, who is a member of the government, at the behest of fellow councillors who are becoming increasingly worried about the changes.

Council tenants on benefits could find themselves much worse off with the introduction of the new bedroom tax, while changes to disability payments and the new universal credit system are creating anxiety amongst those affected.

Bell said he understood that the government had to save money, but the council was extremely concerned.

“We are calling for some support to mitigate the impact on those individuals and households affected as the reforms are rolled out,” he said.

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