Recent alterations to DWP benefit regulations have raised concerns that some individuals, particularly young people in supported housing, could be financially worse off upon entering employment. Labour MP Mike Reader questioned the government on this issue, highlighting the potential for benefit rules to create a disadvantage. While pensions minister Sir Stephen Timms emphasized the financial and non-financial benefits of work, he acknowledged a challenge with the interaction between Universal Credit and Housing Benefit for certain claimants residing in supported housing. The government plans to address this issue in partnership with stakeholders.
Concerns have been voiced that recent alterations to DWP benefit regulations might result in some individuals being 'worse off'. Labour MP Mike Reader questioned the Government on whether ministers had assessed how policy shifts could lead to "young people in supported housing becoming worse off when entering into employment because of benefit rules".
However, the minister acknowledged a problem with the way Housing Benefit and Universal Credit operate for certain claimants. He explained: "The Department acknowledges there is a challenge presented by the interaction between Universal Credit and Housing Benefit for those residing in Supported Housing and Temporary Accommodation and receiving their housing support through Housing Benefit. The department will consider the issue carefully in partnership with stakeholders.
"The system must also work to reduce poverty for disabled people and those with health conditions and support disabled people to live independently. It is also vital to ensure that the system is financially sustainable in the long term."
BENEFITS EMPLOYMENT UNIVERSAL CREDIT HOUSING BENEFIT WORK CAPABILITY ASSESSMENT
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
UK State Pension and Benefit Payment Changes Due to New Year's Bank HolidaysThe Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced changes to State Pension and benefit payments for those scheduled to be paid on January 1st and 2nd due to the New Year's bank holidays. Payments will be issued early to ensure claimants have access to support. Similar changes have been confirmed by HMRC and Social Security Scotland.
Read more »
UK Benefit System Set for Major Changes in 2025The UK benefits system is undergoing significant changes in 2025, with several announcements already made by the Department for Work and Pensions. These changes, particularly affecting Carer's Allowance and Universal Credit, will have a direct impact on individuals receiving benefits. The article highlights the key updates, including the increase in the Carer's Allowance earnings limit and other planned adjustments to the Universal Credit system.
Read more »
New Digital Channel for Reporting Benefit ChangesThe Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is developing a new digital channel to streamline the reporting of changes for individuals receiving disability benefits, low-income benefits, and the State Pension. However, this new system will not initially apply to Universal Credit claimants.
Read more »
Major Benefit Changes Coming in April 2025The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and the Labour Party government are implementing seven significant benefit changes starting in April 2025. These changes include a 1.7% increase for inflation-linked benefits, a pay rise for claimants nationwide, and the replacement of Tax Credits with Universal Credit. The standard allowance for Universal Credit will also increase, along with various other elements like child and disability allowances, and carer's benefits. The state pension and Pension Credit will also see increases.
Read more »
Nine major disability benefit changes that could come this springThe Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is set to announce nine major changes to disability benefits this spring as the government bids to reduce the rising costs
Read more »
UK Government's Benefit Fraud Clampdown Sparks Banking ConcernsThe UK government's plan to strengthen its fight against benefit fraud by scrutinizing bank accounts of recipients has sparked controversy, with banking industry raising concerns about potential conflicts with consumer protection laws.
Read more »