Transfer from Universal Credit into Work Cost of Childcare 2022-12-05
2022-12-05
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The cost of childcare affects parents' decision to transfer from universal credit into employment, especially considering the frozen childcare element since 2016.
What assessment has been made by the Department regarding the potential impact of childcare costs on people's incentive to move from universal credit to work?
The Government provide tailored support through universal credit, the free childcare entitlement, and skills support. Claimants can receive financial assistance for upfront and ongoing childcare costs under universal credit. Universal credit-eligible claimants can get up to 85% of their registered childcare costs each month.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about assessing the impact of frozen childcare costs was not directly addressed.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Sandra in Northwich faces a significant barrier due to increased childcare costs, reflecting the challenges many women face across the UK. The childcare element of universal credit has been frozen since 2016.
Sandra from Northwich faces barriers because of increased childcare costs. When will the Minister unfreeze the childcare element of universal credit?
Universal credit-eligible claimants can receive up to 85% of their registered childcare costs each month. I compare this favourably with the 70% offered in tax credits. Employers need to understand and address childcare challenges better by considering job design and flexibility.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about unfreezing the childcare element was not addressed; instead, emphasis was placed on comparing benefits and employer responsibilities.
Changed Subject To Employer Responsibilities
Response accuracy