Universal credit reaches new milestone

Universal Credit has reached a major new milestone with over 250,000 claims made.

The new benefit scheme is now available in over 76% of all jobcentres across the county as the roll-out continues.

The Government believes the new system will ensure people will be better off in work rather than rely on benefits and will help people into work faster.

People claiming Universal Credit are significantly more likely to find employment than those on Jobseeker’s Allowance and for the first time ever, claimants are being supported to earn more and progress their careers.

Single jobseekers are now able to claim Universal Credit in:

• Brighton
• Hove
• Kirkintilloch
• Peterborough

Soon Universal Credit will replace six existing benefits which include: Working Tax Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Support, Employment and Support Allowance, Child Tax Credits and Housing Benefit.

To ensure effective roll out of the Universal Credit programme a recent report highlighted a number of important issues that need to be addressed.

See the list of jobcentre areas where Universal Credit can be claimed.

Image: Andrew_Writer