Universal Credit 2020-03-09
2020-03-09
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Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
As universal credit is rolled out in various areas.
Sara Britcliffe welcomes the use of new technology to help applicants, particularly in Hyndburn. She asks what support is available to ensure that applicants can make the best use of the new systems.
Universal credit has been designed to be a digital-first service, ensuring we make the best use of technology. The Department has implemented Help to Claim, which offers tailored practical support to help people claim Universal Credit. Additionally, all jobcentres have wi-fi and computers available for claimants.
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Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
The Work and Pensions Committee chose to investigate the five-week delay in Universal Credit payments as its first major inquiry.
Will he confirm that the Department will do all it can to assist the Select Committee in its inquiry into the five-week delay between applying for Universal Credit and being entitled to benefit?
I thank the Chairman of the Select Committee for his question. I start from the premise that we do not believe anybody has to wait five weeks for a payment under universal credit. Advance payments are available at the beginning of a UC claim and budgeting support is available for anybody who needs extra help. We have the two-week roll-on of housing benefit, and as of July this year we will also have the two-week roll-on of other legacy benefits. I will of course look carefully at the findings of the report by the right hon Gentleman's Committee.
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