Edward Thompson
Hi Jennie its quite common on older properties for the stud wall under the stairs to provide support to the 1st floor joists/stairs, the beam is probably the trimmer joist for the stairs you need to make sure that this is properly supported either on brickwork or from joists at right angles to its self.If you are unsure it's best to get a competent person to take a look before you make any alterations, you could contact your local building control to ask if they would come out to inspect. Hope this helps. Ed
