Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment has been made of the effectiveness and accessibility of the Universal Credit advance payment service for newly recognised refugees.

We have made no specific assessment for newly recognised refugees. Provided the eligibility criteria for Universal Credit is met, we will always offer an advance payment to a refugee when making a new claim. DWP staff have access to information on a range of services and support available in their local area for vulnerable claimants including refugees. This includes Universal Support which provides help with using online services and budgeting advice. We also have access to a range of translation services to assist should the claimant need support to overcome any language barriers.