People on benefits have described feeling like “the walking dead” as they voiced fears Jeremy Hunt’s expected announcement of a payment increase in line with rising prices will come too late. The Chancellor’s autumn statement will be unveiled on Thursday after further rises in gas and electricity bills sent UK inflation to its highest level for 41 years, according to official figures.
Phoenix, a mother-of-four from Crystal Palace, south-east London, relies on universal credit to provide for her children, who are between four and 15.
“I think it’s too late,” the 33-year-old, who did not wish to give her surname, told the PA news agency. “None of the people have hope. We are like the actual walking dead… so many people (are) saying the same thing. The struggle is real, but should we really be in this turmoil?”
