New figures released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) this week show that Consumer Prices Index (CPI) inflation reached 10.1% in September, compared with 9.9% in August. The figure remains well above the UK Government’s target of 2%, however, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt would not confirm if benefits will go up by that figure next April.
Millions of households face a challenging winter ahead as gas and electricity bills continue to soar with changes to the UK Government’s £2,500 Energy Price Guarantee now meaning that the support will end in April. Early forecasts indicate that the energy price cap will rise to £4,350 from April until Jul, however, the £400 rebate will remain in effect.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has also confirmed that there are no plans to provide additional targeted support for people claiming disability benefits, in response to a question from SNP MP, Martyn Day, about the ongoing cost of living crisis and soaring inflation.
