Universal Credit Sanctions 2022-10-31
2022-10-31
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The MP noted an increase in sanctions rates for universal credit between November 2021 and May 2022, with current levels being unprecedentedly high. This situation disproportionately affects families struggling due to soaring food prices, energy bills, and rent.
What assessment has the Department made of changes in the level of the sanction rate for universal credit between November 2021 and May 2022? The current sanctions rate is unprecedentedly high, with twice as many people on universal credit being sanctioned compared to three years ago. Families face hunger and freezing homes because of rising costs.
The Minister noted that emergency measures during covid led to a low sanctions rate, which was expected to increase when face-to-face appointments were reintroduced. Conditionality is an important part of a fair welfare system, as it encourages claimants to take reasonable steps towards work.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Commitment to raising social security and ending the sanctions regime
Conditionality Is An Important Part Of A Fair Welfare System
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The MP highlighted that the current sanctions rate for universal credit is unprecedentedly high, affecting families struggling due to soaring food prices and energy bills.
Will the Minister commit to raising social security in line with inflation and end the sanctions regime? Conditionality and sanctions only inflict more hardship on those who are already struggling this winter.
The Minister argued that people are sanctioned only if they fail to attend appointments without good reason or meet agreed requirements. Conditionality is an important part of a fair welfare system, encouraging claimants to prepare for work.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Commitment to raising social security and ending the sanctions regime
Conditionality Is An Important Part Of A Fair Welfare System
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The Secretary of State indicated there would be a difference in tone within the Department. The Department conducted an examination of sanctions and conditionality, but his predecessor refused to publish it.
Will the Secretary of State now publish the report examining the effects of sanctions and conditionality that his predecessor refused to release? This could inform a debate on the effectiveness of sanctions in the Chamber.
The Minister stated that sanctions are important for work coaches to do their job and engage with claimants, particularly those who face underlying issues like being a care leaver or having home problems. Sanctions do not apply to all claimants; work coaches use discretion in such cases.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Commitment to publishing the examination report
Sanctions Are Important For Work Coaches
Response accuracy