DWP Halts Benefits for 350,000 Households in Universal Credit Overhaul
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has revealed that over 350,000 benefit claimants have had their payments stopped in recent years due to a significant shake-up of the Universal Credit system. Specifically, 356,521 households across the UK have seen their benefits closed after failing to claim Universal Credit following official invitations.
Managed Migration System Leads to Terminations
More than 350,000 households have experienced benefit payment terminations under the managed migration system. These individuals did not respond to the migration notice sent by the DWP to most households still receiving legacy benefits. The affected benefits include:
- Tax credits
- Income support
- Jobseeker’s allowance
- Employment and support allowance
- Housing benefit
Out of the 2.3 million households that have received a migration notice so far, 1.9 million have successfully migrated to Universal Credit, highlighting the scale of this transition.
Expert Advice and DWP Support
Conor Lawlor, a benefit specialist at Turn2Us, emphasized the importance of timely action in a statement this week. If someone gets a managed migration letter now, they should make a claim for universal credit before the deadline in their letter to ensure they get transitional protection, he said. Lawlor added that claimants should already be engaged in the enhanced support journey, with the DWP contacting them if there is no response after a notice is issued. For additional support, he recommended using the Turn2us find an adviser tool.
A DWP spokesperson stated, It is important people respond to the letter asking them to make the move to universal credit in order to continue receiving benefits. The department offers various forms of assistance, including:
- A dedicated helpline
- Guidance on gov.uk
- Citizens Advice’s free and independent help to claim service
Extra help is also provided for those moving from employment and support allowance, such as phone calls and additional guidance.
Enhanced Support Journey for Non-Responders
When no response is received within 11 weeks, the DWP initiates an enhanced support journey. This process involves additional correspondence and may include home visits to ensure claimants are aware of the changes and can take necessary steps to continue receiving benefits. This measure aims to prevent further terminations and support vulnerable individuals through the transition.
