Criminals detained in hospital set to lose benefits
Summary
The UK government plans to stop serious criminals held in hospitals from receiving social welfare benefits while they get medical treatment. The new rules aim to save money and respond to families of victims who said it was unfair for offenders to get benefits and hospital care at the same time.Key Facts
- The new regulations will prevent criminals detained in hospitals, like killers and sex offenders, from receiving up to £800 a month in universal credit benefits.
- These criminals already have their hospital care and living costs paid by the National Health Service (NHS).
- The rules are expected to start early next year after approval by Parliament.
- The change is expected to save tens of millions of pounds each year.
- Families of victims from recent criminal cases in Nottingham and London welcomed the decision, saying it is fair.
- The offenders affected in these cases were found guilty but were detained under hospital orders due to mental health conditions.
- The government consulted victims' families and experts before proposing this change.
- UK Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden stated this ends what he called a "gross unfairness."
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