Tax credit cuts could cost care workers and roadsweepers £2,000 annually

CPAG found that 3.2 million low-paid workers, many of whom include roadsweepers and care workers, would lose an estimated £1,350 in the next year, with some losing over £2,000, if the legislation were to come into action.

Currently, the House of Lords has delayed the proposed cuts, however if implemented they would slash the earnings level at which tax credits start to be withdrawn as wages rise. Furthermore, the cuts would likely raise the rate at which earnings are taken away once they reach this threshold.

The data estimated that nationally £4.4 billion would be taken from low-paid families if the cuts are finally approved, with some keeping just three pence of every £1 they earn. CPAG’s calculations are based on sole earners working full time, either single parents with two children or a sole earner in a couple-family with two children, and do not account the impact of other changes to tax benefits.

However, the charity believes that the cuts are not offset by other changes such as the National Living Wage, rising income tax threshold or the free childcare offer. CPAG also claimed that work incentives could be compromised and an increase in child poverty could occur.

Alison Garnham, chief executive of CPAG, said: "These are grafting parents, often working long hours and trying to provide for their kids. And if you’re struggling now to pay for food, utilities, fares and your children’s clothing, these kinds of losses must make you fear for the future."

She added: "The government, has had the message loud and clear from right across the political spectrum: there isn’t a case for cuts that would target working families, increase child poverty and damage family security."

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