News Archives - Toynbee Hall

Renters’ rights have changed: what this means for you

The Renters’ Rights Act has introduced major changes to private renting in England. From 1st May 2026 new rules apply to the vast majority of private sector tenancies, strengthening tenants’ rights and increasing rental stability. The Act arguably contains the most significant changes to housing law in a generation. Here are the key things you need to know 1) If you are renting privately, you are highly likely to be impacted by these…
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Invisible Illness, Visible Inequality

“ME Awareness Week provides an important opportunity to raise public awareness of the realities of living with ME/CFS, challenge the misconceptions and stigma that still surround the condition, and recognise the urgent need for continued research, improved healthcare provision, and fairer welfare and social security support for those affected. ME/CFS is a complex, life-changing multisystem…
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Two Child Limit changes: four things you can do now if you may be affected

Recent changes to the two-child limit in Universal Credit (UC), which came into effect on 6th April 2026, mean that some families may now be entitled to additional support. The two-child limit has been lifted, which means certain households may be able to receive Universal Credit payments for more than two children. While not everyone will be affected, some…
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Game over for loan sharks: Debt Free Advice backs national awareness week

Debt Free Advice is supporting Stop Loan Sharks Week (11–17 May), helping to raiseawareness of the risks of illegal lending and ensure people know where to turn for help.Matt Dronfield, Managing Director of Debt Free Advice, said: “Illegal lenders often target people when they are at their most vulnerable. It’s importantpeople know that support is…
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Your Artwork Here projected onto wall in front of city skyline

Toynbee Hall hosts “The Story of England in 50 Objects” on Community Projector

This Spring, Toynbee Hall is working with A Very English Chat to present “The Story of England in 50 Objects” on our Community Projector in Mallon Gardens. The project brings together a collection of 50 objects that have been chosen and co-created by people across England as part of a wider public campaign exploring national…
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From Missed Payment to Crisis: Why Council Tax Reform Matters

The Government has today announced plans to reform council tax debt collection, following last year’s consultation on making the system fairer for households struggling to keep up with payments. The proposed changes are expected to give people more time before debts escalate, introduce a cap on additional costs, and strengthen expectations that councils offer realistic…
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Do you have a disability or health condition that limits or prevents your capacity to work?

To avoid receiving a lower rate of support, apply for the Universal Credit health element by April 5th. After that date, the support you may receive if eligible will be around £3,000 less on average per year. Our peer researchers have been pushing for an extension to the deadline for the cuts to the Universal Credit health element. While the…
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Childhood in an income-deprived borough: why free Play Programmes matter more than ever

In Tower Hamlets, where nearly half the children are growing up in poverty, free child-focused services are essential for them and their families. Despite the challenges families face, in Tower Hamlets, childhood is full of imagination, creativity, and community. Families work hard to give their children the best start in life, balancing work, care, and home responsibilities.…
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Toynbee Hall’s Response to the 2025 Autumn Statement

The government’s 2025 Autumn Statement offered a recognition of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and included some positive steps to address it. Yet these sit alongside choices that continue to erode the foundations of a robust social security system capable of responding to that crisis. One genuinely welcome step was the decision to scrap the harmful…
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Creating Space to Breathe in an Income-Deprived Borough

Tower Hamlets remains one of London’s most income-deprived boroughs, with over 40% of households living on low incomes. For residents, this is not simply a matter of finances – it’s about navigating multiple, overlapping challenges while trying to maintain stability, health, and family life. For advisers at Toynbee Hall’s Tower Hamlets Advice Service, their work provides essential support and breathing space, enabling…
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Category: News