Universal Credit transition 'not fit for purpose' in supporting farming families

"Sometimes we go without eating so our children can eat. Despite already working over 80 hours, seven days a week, I was told I would need to get another job. It is appalling"

Chris Brayford
clock • 8 min read
North East Fife MP Wendy Chamberlain said: "Universal Credit in its current form simply does not work for the farming industry."
Image:

North East Fife MP Wendy Chamberlain said: "Universal Credit in its current form simply does not work for the farming industry."

The Government has faced pressure to urgently review a living cost payment to support farming families struggling to make ends meet. Wendy Chamberlain, MP for North East Fife, has written a letter...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

Login

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358

 

More on Politics

Draconian planning policy hampers farm resilience as slurry season begins, says UFU

Draconian planning policy hampers farm resilience as slurry season begins, says UFU

The union says harsh weather conditions and a broken planning system have created a perfect storm for Northern Irelands farmers

clock 31 January 2026 • 2 min read
On US soil: 'US agriculture is not feeling we are being treated fairly'

On US soil: 'US agriculture is not feeling we are being treated fairly'

With the world’s focus on Donald Trump and US politics, how are American farmers feeling? One Ohio farmer gives his insight on the reality of the situation

Alex Black
clock 30 January 2026 • 4 min read
Letters - Distribution centre protester Mark Watler: "British farmers deserve better"

Letters - Distribution centre protester Mark Watler: "British farmers deserve better"

Mark Watler, a farmworker from Leicestershire, says farmer protests are about fairness as blockades outside distribution centres enter their fourth week

Alex Black
clock 30 January 2026 • 1 min read