Low-income renters will struggle after UK housing benefit freeze, experts warn

Rachel Reeves's budget criticised for keeping local housing allowance at same level despite rising rent costs

Low-income renters will struggle to afford housing costs after Rachel Reeves's decision to freeze the amount of housing benefit they receive in the budget, experts have warned.

Liz Kendall, the work and pensions secretary, confirmed on Thursday that local housing allowance (LHA) - the localised rates that determine how much housing benefit claimants are entitled to - will be locked at the current levels until 2026.