POVERTY campaigners in Wales today called for the Welsh government to establish a single benefits system to stop thousands missing out on payments.

The Bevan Foundation called for the initiative as it warned that thousands of people are missing out on vital cash in accessing benefits administered by the Welsh government and local councils.

Bevan Foundation’s Dr Steffan Evans said: “The failure to establish a Welsh benefits system has a real impact on families. 

“While it is welcome that our call to establish such a system has been warmly received, 2024 must be the year that real progress is made in implementing a Welsh benefits system that works for everyone.”

Dr Evans said the Welsh government’s pledge to establish a benefits system was positive, but cautioned that the timescale to implement a more joined-up system was crucial. 

A Welsh government spokesperson said: “We are working with local authorities and key organisations, including the Bevan Foundation, to create a more joined-up Welsh benefits system where a person only has to tell their story once to access their entitlements. 

“We will be making an announcement shortly on the establishment of a Welsh benefits charter.”

The Welsh think tank’s latest research reveals that a complicated and disjointed system means over £73 million goes unclaimed each year.

The Foundation says grants and allowances like the council tax reduction scheme and the education maintenance allowance complement the Westminster government’s social security system and can be worth as much as £4,000 to a family.

But a key barrier facing families across Wales is knowing what help is available.