The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is facing pressure to abolish what critics describe as a "humiliating" requirement for millions of Universal Credit claimants. A petition lodged on the official Parliamentary website urges the Labour government to overhaul the current identity verification rules.
Petition Demands Dignified Alternatives
The petition, which has just been launched and currently has only a handful of signatures, states: "End the use of identity checks on Universal Credit claimants such as passport selfies, doorstep photos and images of people's homes. We call for proportionate, dignified alternatives."
Some claimants are asked to photograph their passport next to their face and open their front door for photos. The petition argues that this practice is humiliating, raises safeguarding and security risks, and could be discriminatory. "Claimants are not criminals," it reads. "They are vulnerable people who depend on this support to survive."
How the Petition Process Works
The petition is now open for signatures. If it reaches 10,000 signatures, the government will respond. If it garners 100,000 signatures, it will be considered for debate in Parliament. The petition will remain open until 3 December 2026, giving it ample time to elicit a response from the DWP, which is overseen by cabinet members including Pat McFadden, Torsten Bell, and Sir Stephen Timms.
Current Identity Verification Rules
To claim Universal Credit, individuals must verify their identity. This process helps link the correct person to their claim and reduces identity fraud. Verification can be completed through online identity checks, face-to-face appointments, documentary evidence, or biographical interviews.
Online verification requires providing information that only the claimant would know, such as passport details. Claimants can use any two of the following: a valid UK passport, a UK driving licence, recent Self Assessment returns, or credit references (e.g., information about credit cards or phone contracts). Successfully verifying identity online may eliminate the need for a full initial evidence interview.
The petition argues that these measures, particularly the use of passport selfies and doorstep photos, are excessive and undignified for vulnerable claimants. It calls for a more respectful and secure approach to identity verification.
