Making Work, Work

Our 'Making Work, Work' campaign is based on research which shows that homeless people are not always better off in employment, particularly if the work is part-time and low-paid. The way that benefits - and particularly housing benefit - is calculated and delivered, makes the transition into work for homeless people financially and emotionally difficult.

"The research clearly demonstrates that work doesn’t always work out for homeless people. Typically those returning to work are confused about benefit entitlement, struggle to make ends meet and lack in-work support. Their foremost fear is that returning to work will lead to spiralling debt and a return to homelessness."

We are delighted that Government has recognised the need for additional financial support at the critical stage of moving into work with the announcement of plans to implement a 'Transition into Work' payment for housing benefit recipients and introduce fixed payments for housing benefit to help people budget more easily.

But the proposals don't go far enough; unless the amount that people can earn before their housing benefit is tapered away is increased and the rate at which it is tapered reduced, work will never fully pay.

Read more about our views on the proposals BAOH response to HB consultation (103 kb)

Making Work, Work - key calls to action:

• Goverment  needs to deliver more personalised support for homeless people through a case-management approach, with all benefits administered in one place.
• Businesses should to offer flexible salary payment methods for new starters and review the use of casual contracts.
• Hostel providers should ensure access to dedicated in-work accommodation and specialist education, training and employment advisors.

BAOH is also reviewing its post-placement support in light of this research, and working collaboratively with our companies to push forward with the recommendations for business.