DOZENS of people took to the streets in opposition to Universal Credit at the weekend.

On Saturday, a protest that wound its way through Guisborough and ended with a rally that highlighted concerns around the roll-out of the benefit to the area.

There has been nationwide opposition to the launch of Universal Credit, a single monthly payment introduced by the Government as a replacement for six other benefits.

The demonstration followed widespread concern over the introduction of it to Redcar and Cleveland.

In October, the local council penned three letters asking for the move to be delayed until after Christmas while Redcar’s MP Anna Turley has called for it to be halted until concerns about flaws in the system are properly addressed.

She said: “"Universal Credit is going to be devastating for people in our area and low income families are going to see the support they receive slashed. Rather than making work pay, as the government claim it will do, the new system will leave vulnerable people reliant on food banks and forced in to personal debt.”

Cllr Sue Jeffrey, Leader of Redcar and Cleveland Council said “I am dismayed at the callous approach being taken by this Government.

“We know that there is likely to be difficulties for many people who are forced to move onto Universal Credit in the month before Christmas.

“The council has put arrangements in place to provide emergency support if needed, but we should not be in this position – Government needs to have an urgent re think of the whole system.”