Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what action they are taking to ensure that there is adequate support for vulnerable Universal Credit claimants who do not have housing support staff.

The Universal Credit service is designed to support the needs of those claimants whose often complex, sometimes multiple, barriers and conditions are preventing them from finding and staying in work, or risk them struggling to engage independently with Universal Credit and the opportunities it offers.

For example, as part of the first Interview, the Work Coach and the claimant will discuss the claimant’s ability to manage their monthly payment and pay bills on time. Where appropriate, the Work Coach will refer the claimant for Personal Budgeting Support including money advice. Health, disability and other personal circumstances may also be discussed.

The Work Coach will also determine if an Alternative Payment Arrangement is needed. Alternative Payment Arrangements can include managed payment of Universal Credit housing costs to their landlord, more frequent payments; and split payments within a household in exceptional cases.

As we continue to deliver the full Universal Credit service, with its expanded claimant base, we are continually reviewing and developing the current vulnerable claimant customer journey, including how vulnerable people are identified and how they are supported both internally and via referral to local services delivered in partnership activity.