Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, whether his Department is taking steps to help ensure that families that have reached the benefits cap have enough money.

Getting claimants back into work remains our primary concern and, returning to employment will significantly increase the likelihood of a household not being affected by the cap.

Local authorities can support claimants with reviewing their housing options and provide budgeting advice.

Claimants can also approach their local authority to be considered for a Discretionary Housing Payment. These can be paid to those entitled to Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit who face a shortfall in meeting their rental costs.