The Department for Work and Pensions has announced a significant update regarding Universal Credit, with a £15 million boost being rolled out. This funding will support the Help to Claim scheme, which assists individuals transitioning from Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) to Universal Credit. The initiative is a collaboration between Citizens Advice and Citizens Advice Scotland, offering free and independent advice to those in need. Since its inception in 2019, this program has helped over a million people in making a claim to Universal Credit.
This additional funding comes on the heels of a recent announcement by Labour Party Chancellor Rachel Reeves, who has expedited the benefit reform process. Instead of waiting until 2028, more than 800,000 individuals currently receiving ESA will be moved to Universal Credit by March 2026. Minister for Social Security and Disability, Sir Stephen Timms MP, emphasized the importance of acting promptly upon receiving a migration notice to ensure swift access to benefit entitlement. He believes that this boost in funding will provide valuable support to individuals transitioning to Universal Credit, helping them feel more confident and informed during the application process.
Furthermore, these changes represent the most significant reforms to employment support in a generation. Jobcentres will be overhauled, and local work, health, and skills plans will be implemented to address inactivity. Additionally, a Youth Guarantee will be introduced to assist more people in finding and maintaining employment. Dame Clare Moriarty, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice, expressed gratitude for the funding boost, stating that it will enable their advisers to help even more individuals with their initial Universal Credit applications. She highlighted the accessibility of their services, which include phone, chat, and British Sign Language options to cater to a diverse range of needs.
Overall, the £15 million funding injection into the Help to Claim scheme is a welcome development that will benefit many individuals transitioning from ESA to Universal Credit. The additional support provided by Citizens Advice and Citizens Advice Scotland will ensure that those in need receive the guidance and assistance necessary to navigate this process successfully. As the government continues to implement reforms aimed at helping more people access employment opportunities, initiatives like the Help to Claim scheme play a crucial role in supporting individuals during periods of transition and change.
