PEOPLE in York will struggle financially when benefits changes are introduced in full, it has been warned.

Citizens Advice York have spoken out over what it fears will be the impact when Universal Credit is rolled completely, replacing Working Tax Credits for many working people.

Tony Lindsay, the organisation’s chief executive, said: “Many people who work but are on a low income still struggle to make ends meet. Changes to benefits - such as the introduction of Universal Credit will have a big impact on low income working households, as people are expected to try and work more hours or get a better paid job.

He added: “Our research shows that for some people this will be a real challenge, such as if they’re disabled, look after young children or face high travel costs.”

The York-based charity contributed to research which was published last week by the national Citizens Advice charity.

It looked at how people in work and receiving benefits can struggle to make ends meet, and found that many are already worried about their financial situation.

A survey carried out by 30 Citizens Advice centres around the country, including Citizens Advice York, spoke to around 2,200 people in the first three months of this year.

It found that one in three people did not have fixed hours of work, and seven out of ten say they are never able to put any money aside for savings.

The study also reveals many feel they would struggle if they faced a £100 drop in income because of the benefit changes on the way.

More than half - 53 per cent - say they would need to take on debt; nearly 40 per cent would have to cut their household spending and outgoings to make ends meet; but 48 per cent said they could not cut their spending any more.

Universal Credit rules mean that anyone working but earning less that a set amount has to try and increase their hours or rate of pay as a condition of getting the support.

But the CAB research shows that only one in three people say they would be able to increase their income by working more hours or getting a higher paid job.

Mr Lindsay said that anyone who is worried about how changes to welfare could affect them can contact Citizens Advice York.

The helpline is open 9.30am to 4pm Monday to Friday on 03444 111 444 and drop in sessions are held at West Offices on Station Rise Monday to Thursday. For full details visit www.yorkcab.org.uk