**FAQ**

**What is the main focus of the article?**
The article sheds light on the disconnect between public perceptions of support for those on the lowest incomes and the reality of the level of support they actually receive.

**What did the polling commissioned by NEF reveal?**
The polling revealed that most people do not have a clear understanding of the level of support people on benefits currently receive. The average estimate of unemployment benefits was 48%, while the actual percentage is only 23%.

**What benchmark does NEF propose for support levels?**
NEF proposes using the Minimum Income Standard (MIS) developed by Loughborough University as a benchmark for determining the minimum levels of support people should receive.

**What is the significance of the gap between public perception and reality in benefit levels?**
The gap between public perception and reality highlights the need for the next government to consider how they respond to and communicate the challenges faced by those on the lowest incomes.

**Conclusion**

The polling conducted by NEF reveals a significant gap between public perceptions of support for those on the lowest incomes and the actual reality of the level of benefits they receive. This highlights the importance of developing a new consensus about the minimum levels of support people should receive, based on a more meaningful benchmark such as the Minimum Income Standard. The next government must consider how they address and communicate the challenges faced by those on the lowest incomes to ensure that everyone is supported to meet a decent standard of living.