STARTING today (13 May), individuals claiming Universal Credit and working less than 18 hours per week will be required to actively seek more employment opportunities.
The UK Government, in a significant overhaul of the welfare system, is increasing the administrative earnings threshold to the equivalent of 18 hours at the national living wage for individual claimants, up from 15 hours previously.
Under these changes, those working less than half of a full-time week will have more frequent meetings with their work coach to explore avenues for increasing their income, according to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Economic Empowerment
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak emphasised the impact of these changes, stating, “Today’s adjustments will assist more individuals receiving universal credit in securing well-paying jobs and progressing towards financial autonomy, which is beneficial both for them and for economic growth.”
He further stressed that “welfare should serve as a safety net and not as a lifestyle choice.”
According to the DWP, the revised rules apply to individuals earning below £892 per month or £1,437 for couples, a rise from £617 and £988 respectively.
Approximately 180,000 people will be affected by this adjustment, according to the department’s estimates.
Support from Jobcentres
Individuals capable of working are expected to engage with the available support from Jobcentres or risk losing their benefits.
Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride stated, “We are committed to supporting those who are eager to work diligently, and today we are significantly enhancing the resources available to assist individuals in advancing their careers.”
“With our next phase of welfare reforms, I aim to aid thousands of individuals in transitioning away from benefits towards financial independence,” Stride added.
“Our strategy ensures that work is financially rewarding; individuals in full-time employment are now £7,000 better off than those relying solely on out-of-work benefits, and our tax reductions are putting £900 back into the pockets of millions of workers across Britain.”
Last month, Mr Sunak unveiled his welfare reform agenda, which includes a review of payments to individuals with mental health conditions, sparking criticism of a “concerted attack on disabled individuals.”
