Frome Jobcentre is one of 150 Jobcentres around the country that will start taking Universal Credit claims for the first time from February.
Universal Credit merges six benefits into one and simplifies the system so that people will always be better off in work. What’s more, for the first time people will be helped when they are in work to earn more.
Minister for Welfare Reform Lord Freud said, “We’ve already seen remarkable successes, with Universal Credit claimants moving into work faster and staying in work longer. As part of our long-term economic plan, people in Frome will have the financial security of knowing that working more pays more money.
“Our work coaches in Frome Jobcentre will give claimants tailored support they need to get into work, and for the first time will give people support when they are in work to earn more.”
Claims will initially be open to single jobseekers. People will get one monthly payment rather than fortnightly ones, mirroring the way most people are paid in work.
And because Universal Credit allows Jobcentres to access real-time HMRC earnings data, it means that exactly the right level of support is in place to help people on their journey into work, including topping up claimants earnings when they are on a low income.
Universal Credit is already available in almost 100 Jobcentre areas and will shortly be in all of the North West of England. The next stage of Universal Credit roll out means that it will be available in one in three of the country’s Jobcentres.
Five things you need to know about Universal Credit:
•Universal Credit is replacing the six main out-of-work benefits and tax credits and is being gradually rolled out across the country.
•It is paid monthly and direct into people’s bank accounts in the same way most people in work receive their salaries.
•Universal Credit makes work pay by gradually reducing the amount of benefit a claimant receives as their earnings increase.
•It is claimed online.
Jobcentre Plus will let claimants know about any changes. Watch the video to find out more: youtu.be/E7GUu7Xa7Nw?list=UUMHFuKuom9qJHLgXlYjc33Q
