Norfolk Constabulary

Welfare Reform –

T/ACC Nick DEAN

Date: 13th June 2013

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Repercussion of welfare reform for Criminal Justice and Anti-Social Behaviour in Norfolk

Summary of Main Changes1. Housing Benefit and about the size criteria (bedroom tax)Reduced rates for tenants of private. landlords, new rules about spare rooms for council and

housing association tenants.2. Council Tax Benefit changing to Council Tax Support SchemeAbolished and replaced with a Local Council Tax Support Scheme.3. Disability Living Allowance (working age) changing to Personal Independence PaymentReplaced by Personal Independence Payment for people aged 16-64. .4. The Social Fund Scheme changing to Discretionary Crisis FundThe Community Care Grant and Crisis Loan elements of the Social Fund will cease from 1 April2013. The Discretionary Crisis Fund is a fund of last resort to help people who are in a crisis.5. Introduction of a Benefit CapLimits the overall amount of benefit households will receive.6. Introduction of Universal CreditReplaces lots of other benefits that a household receives and instead households will get onebenefit paid monthly.

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Repercussion of welfare reform for criminal justice and ASB in Norfolk

“Whilst there may be a widely accepted correlation between deprivation and crime this does not necessarily imply causation”.

• Potential increases in crime and anti-social behaviour Acquisitive crime: Shoplifting, Theft, Dwelling Burglary, Burglary other than Dwelling, Robbery Prostitution Begging Assault and drinking offencesDomestic Abuse

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Repercussion of welfare reform for criminal justice and ASB in Norfolk

• Potential increase in Hate Crime and Community tension

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With the focus on welfare changes, various opinions , both social and political, expressed in or by the media can create a negative view of those that access benefits

Repercussion of welfare reform for criminal justice and ASB in Norfolk

• Bigger demand for houses in multiple occupation

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Houses of Multiple Occupation licensed/ unlicensed HMOs and associated policing challenges

Repercussion of welfare reform for criminal justice and ASB in Norfolk

• Potential increases in crime and anti-social behaviour• Potential increase in Hate Crime and Community tension• Bigger demand for houses in multiple occupation

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Thank you

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