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Universal Credit
Includes: universal credit, welfare reform, housing benefit, council tax benefit, working tax credit, child tax credit, income support, income based job seekers allowance, income related employment and support allowance etc.
Digital universal credit system is plagued by errors
07 September, 2024
Liberal Democrat Tom Brake says computer crashes and delays have left families in debt and at risk of eviction
Commons response 'rules out' replacing Universal Credit
08 November, 2019
DWP minister says any replacement system would require a similar level of investment
DWP has 'misleading' Universal Credit ads banned
07 November, 2019
Advertising Standards Authority says the ads "did not accurately reflect the evidence"
Watchdog bans government's Universal Credit adverts for being 'misleading'
06 November, 2019
Government newspaper adverts about Universal Credit were misleading, the advertising watchdog has ruled
Corbyn reinforces Labour pledge to scrap 'damaging' UC
01 November, 2019
"Real change is coming," said the Labour leader in his first major speech ahead of the General Election in December
£10 million fund to help vulnerable people claim Universal Credit
01 November, 2019
Funding will be available to partner organisations, including charities, from April 2020 to help vulnerable people claim Universal Credit
DWP ducks behind 'disproportionate cost' over Universal Credit questions
01 November, 2019
No stats for alternative payment arrangements
'Charity shops too expensive': Soaring rent arrears and food bank referrals for Universal Credit claimants in Islington
30 October, 2019
Universal Credit claimants in Islington Council have accumulated nearly four times the rent arrears as people on Housing Benefit
Universal credit: MPs call for action on women driven to 'survival sex'
25 October, 2019
Evidence that women are being driven to sex work because of problems with universal credit must lead to government action
Universal Credit is forcing private tenants out of their homes and to live on streets
24 October, 2019
London mayor Sadiq Khan has called for the roll-out of Universal Credit to be halted, saying it is forcing private tenants into homelessness and living on the streets
Welfare reforms are 'forcing Londoners onto the streets'
24 October, 2019
Sadiq Khan calls for powers to put the capital under rent control
DWP faces audit investigation over claimant suicides
24 October, 2019
National Audit Office wants to know what DWP claims it can't afford to say, after 24housing reported brush off to Commons question
Somerset West and Taunton Council says Universal Credit has increased rent arrears
23 October, 2019
Around one third of all council tenants in the area are struggling to pay their rent
Two-thirds of young single parents to lose out under universal credit, think tank warns
22 October, 2019
'Reduction in generosity' for under 25-year-olds with children prompts fears already soaring child poverty rates will only increase further
Government Legal Department was consulted over 'misleading' DWP ads
22 October, 2019
Commons question confirms efforts of DWP to see controversial, unattributed Universal Credit campaign signed off
Poverty report urges DWP to share Universal Credit data with councils
17 October, 2019
London Councils outlines a new model of local welfare the capital's councils could lead on
Universal Credit: 29 April 2013 to 12 September 2019
15 October, 2019
Experimental statistics covering the number of people and households on Universal Credit, starts and claims
'Evictions and hardship': Universal Credit still failing private renters
09 October, 2019
SNP MP Marion Fellows calls on UK Government to increase Local Housing Allowance to pre-2025 levels
Leigh Day Solicitors seeks clients to join a group action compensation claim for loss of disability premiums after moving to Universal Credit
01 October, 2019
Leigh Day Solicitors are bringing compensation claims claims for people who have migrated to Universal Credit before 16 January 2019 and have lost their disability premiums
Universal credit: Labour pledges to scrap welfare scheme
30 September, 2019
A future Labour government would scrap universal credit - which merges six benefits into one payment
JRF comments on Labour policy on Universal Credit
27 September, 2019
Responding to Labour's announcements on Universal Credit, Helen Barnard, Deputy Director for Policy and Partnerships at the Joseph Rowntree Foundation said:
DWP: The shocking number of North East teenagers on Universal Credit
23 September, 2019
More than 6,000 teenagers across the North East are receiving Universal Credit
The longer Universal Credit exists in an area, the higher the need for food banks
20 September, 2019
In areas where Universal Credit has been rolled out for at least a year, food banks in the Trussell Trust's network have seen a 30% increase in demand
Universal credit wait fuels poverty and food bank use
19 September, 2019
Government urged to reduce five-week wait claimants must endure before first payment
Labour considers scrapping Universal Credit
18 September, 2019
Radical proposal for the failed 'reform' could be raised as soon as the party conference next week
Safe as Houses 3: Have government reforms to Universal Credit reduced the rent arrears of Southwark's tenants?
18 September, 2019
Southwark was one of the first areas of the country to see Universal Credit full service roll out
Universal Credit: direct rent payments 'more effective than government reforms for curbing arrears'
17 September, 2019
Direct rent payments for tenants on Universal Credit have been more effective at keeping them out of arrears than government reforms introduced last year
Univeral Credit probe shows 100,000 teenagers on new benefit including thousands in Birmingham
13 September, 2019
Most teens on the controversial welfare scheme are unemployed and campaigners say these latest figures highlight the number of families across the country who are struggling on low incomes
Thousands of Glasgow teens on Universal Credit
13 September, 2019
Analysis of the latest government figures shows that 1167 Glasgow youngsters aged between 16 and 19 received the six-in-one benefit in August this year
Universal Credit changes in October: Why claimants could get MORE money from next month
11 September, 2019
Universal credit claimants will see changes to their payments from next month
Universal Credit: 29 April 2013 to 8 August 2019
10 September, 2019
These experimental statistics cover claims, monthly starts and people on Universal Credit up to 8 August 2019
Parents and guardians given extra time to claim back childcare costs with Universal Credit
09 September, 2019
An extra month to claim back childcare costs could mean parents avoid missing out on up to £1,100 per month
The DWP's Universal Credit changes coming in next month - what you need to know
09 September, 2019
The Department for Work and Pensions will be introducing a change in October that should benefit those receiving UC
Government testing Universal Credit bulk uploads with social landlords after delays
05 September, 2019
The government is testing a system that allows housing providers to upload information about Universal Credit tenants' rent changes in bulk with a number of social landlords
Five-week UC wait causes 'stress and ill health'
04 September, 2019
Briefing calls on today's spending review to reduce the amount of time people wait to receive the first payment
From the frontline Universal Credit and the broken housing safety net
30 August, 2019
The five-week wait is five weeks too long
Over half of landlords letting to Universal Credit tenants experiencing arrears
23 August, 2019
Universal Credit is causing tenants to fall behind with their rent
Research reveals extent of PRS Universal Credit arrears
23 August, 2019
Majority of landlords say arrears only started after tenants were subjected to "welfare reform"
State of the PRS (Q1 2019) A survey of private landlords and the impact of welfare reforms
22 August, 2019
Universal Credit is forcing tenants into rent arrears
DWP rejected chance to take 200,000 people out of poverty
16 August, 2019
Commons report confirms DWP refused a request to ease the benefits freeze earlier this year - despite overachieving on related savings
Report dismisses DWP 'scaremongering' claims over Universal Credit
16 August, 2019
Work and Pensions Committee sees DWP struggling to reassure sceptical claimants that they will be well-supported in moving to UC
Calls for investigation as quarter of a million people have been sanctioned under Universal Credit
13 August, 2019
CAS has called for an urgent investigation into the sanctions system as new figures released by the DWP today reveal a quarter of a million people across the UK have been sanctioned under Universal Credit
Universal Credit: 29 April 2013 to 11 July 2019
13 August, 2019
These experimental statistics cover the number of people and households on Universal Credit, starts and claims
Government faces third legal challenge to Universal Credit migration arrangements
09 August, 2019
Two men with severe disabilities, known as TP and AR, have twice already successfully challenged the government in relation to the migration arrangements
Social landlords face huge admin burden over Universal Credit issue
08 August, 2019
Social landlords have warned they face a huge administrative burden next year unless the government implements reforms to the way rent changes for tenants claiming Universal Credit are processed
Surge in EU citizens unfairly refused access to universal credit
05 August, 2019
'Hostile environment' of benefits system leads EU nationals to destitution
DWP 'carefully considering' latest legal reverse
31 July, 2019
The Department had cleared thousands suffering from mental health conditions as eligible for disability benefits
Child Tax Credit and Universal Credit claimants: statistics related to the policy to provide support for a maximum of 2 children, April 2019
31 July, 2019
This information is about the policy of providing support for a maximum of 2 children in Child Tax Credit and Universal Credit, which came into effect in April 2017, and includes statistics relating to the exceptions to the policy
DWP again ducks behind 'disproportionate cost' over Commons question
29 July, 2019
Repeating a familiar pattern, "cost" is cited as the reason why a Parliamentary Question on Universal Credit can't be fully answered
Boris Johnson promises investment in housing
26 July, 2019
New prime minister Boris Johnson has promised investment in housing, listing it among other pieces of "vital infrastructure"
Government hiding behind 'meaningless' definitions of affordable housing
26 July, 2019
Commons debate on future for Local Housing Allowance sees support for sum covering at least the cheapest third of local rents
Universal Credit Claimants blocked from challenging DWP decisions
26 July, 2019
Britains poorest forced to jump through hoops to obtain benefits justice
Universal Credit pilot to launch
24 July, 2019
Today, regulations will come into force to enable the delivery of a Universal Credit migration pilot based in Harrogate
DWP admits it's interviewed 1,400 benefit claimants under caution over Universal Credit scam
24 July, 2019
A scam ensnared supposedly innocent benefit claimants - but now it emerges they have been given a vigorous assessment by the DWP
Housing sector calls on Johnson to step up development investment and fix Universal Credit
24 July, 2019
Housing bodies and sector figures have reacted to the imminent appointment of Boris Johnson as the new prime minister
Universal Credit among worst examples of welfare reform 'in the history of humankind
23 July, 2019
Commons Work and Pensions Committee says Universal Credit application process should come with a health warning
Universal credit: Disabled people to get backdated benefit payments
23 July, 2019
More than 13,000 disabled people are to receive backdated benefit payments after the government accepted a court ruling over universal credit
Poor universal credit advice costs claimants thousands, MPs say
23 July, 2019
DWP accused of failing to help those who unnecessarily signed up for the benefit
DWP urged to option direct Universal Credit payments to landlords
22 July, 2019
Parliamentary report also says direct payment should be by default where there is a history of rent arrears or debt
Food banks scramble to stop a million children going hungry over holidays
22 July, 2019
More families turn to food parcels to make up for loss of free school meals, extra childcare costs and benefit payment delays
West Midlands Mayor goes 'blue on blue' to battle homelessness
22 July, 2019
Tory West Midlands Mayor Andy Street has gone 'blue on blue' to back an urgent rethink part of the benefits system to tackle homelessness
New Universal Credit report: MPs back RLA suggestions
22 July, 2019
Plans to improve the Universal Credit system by ending the benefits freeze and promoting direct payments to landlords have been put forward by a cross-party group of MPs
Council tenants on Universal Credit 16 times more likely to abandon tenancies
16 July, 2019
Council tenants on Universal Credit are 16 times more likely to abandon their tenancies and three times more likely to be evicted than those receiving housing benefit
Universal Credit: 29 April 2013 to 13 June 2019
16 July, 2019
These experimental statistics cover the number of people and households on Universal Credit, starts and claims
Councils struggle to sustain cash draining Universal Credit 'subsidies'
15 July, 2019
Fourth annual Universal Credit survey from NFA and ARCH warns already unsustainable situation could be even worse
'Halt universal credit pilot,' MSPs tell UK government
12 July, 2019
MSPs are calling for a stop to the next stage in the rollout of universal credit over fears about the impact it will have
MSPs fear Universal Credit pilot 'punishes the working poor'
12 July, 2019
The roll out of Universal Credit has been littered with mistakes and it is vital that this latest pilot is put on hold
Universal credit: Fraud victims may still have to pay money claimed
11 July, 2019
Victims of a Universal Credit scam may still have to repay money fraudulently claimed on their behalf
DWP climbs down on climb down over 'a bit of a muddle'
11 July, 2019
24housing story reveals the "muddle" to be the application of DWP policy towards victims of Universal Credit advance loan scams
Opposition MPs claim climbdown by DWP over Universal Credit fraud
10 July, 2019
Commons hears claimant victims would not have to cover losses and could even see legacy benefits restored
DWP faces urgent questions over Universal Credit fraud
10 July, 2019
Universal Credit was supposed to reduce error. Instead it is the most error-riddled of all benefits, and it's only getting worse
Universal credit: Multi-million pound scam targets claimants
09 July, 2019
Tens of millions of pounds of public money is believed to have been stolen, with claimants left owing hundreds
DWP continues to deny Universal Credit information requests
09 July, 2019
Department offers familiar response to a series of written Commons questions
DWP faces sanction over £200k Universal Credit 'propaganda' campaign
09 July, 2019
Department under investigation by the Advertising Standards Authority with campaign branded "misleading" and "highly damaging"
Widow takes on council and wins
09 July, 2019
RLA trainer and Universal Credit and Housing Benefit expert Bill Irving shares a recent case from his files, examining issues around renting to family members
DWP in a 'distressing pattern' facing fresh questions over its future
09 July, 2019
Select committee lands another blow on Universal Credit amid revelations of massive organised fraud
DWP staff cut by 21% since universal credit rollout began
08 July, 2019
Ministers accused of making 'reckless and irresponsible' reductions to workforce amid rise in staffing errors that leave claimants 'cleaning out their savings to survive'
DWP accused of 'incompetence or cover up' over claimant deaths
05 July, 2019
DWP minister already branded "flippant" denies key documents were kept hidden from independent reviews of fitness-for-work tests
New online system for agents and landlords to receive tenant benefit payments set for launch
04 July, 2019
A new online system for landlords and lettings agents to receive direct payments from tenants on Universal Credit is set to be launched before the end of this year after a successful trial
MPs 'short-changed' on Universal Credit questions
03 July, 2019
DWP says written Commons questions too expensive to answer
Mentally ill universal credit claimant receives less than £6 for month after £312 deducted for sanctions
26 June, 2019
This poverty has no prejudice. This is the kind of thing that drives people to homelessness, and to suicide
DWP followed policy in denying dying man benefits
21 June, 2019
Stephen Smith, 64, from Liverpool, weighed 38kg and was gravely ill at time of death
Disability Charities Lodge Complaint Over DWP's 'Myth-Busting' Universal Credit Ads
20 June, 2019
The group has dubbed the adverts "deliberately misleading"
Agents can keep incentive payments from councils - but only if the landlord agrees
20 June, 2019
Already well documented in the press, rising rents in the private rented sector combined with cuts to housing benefits following the introduction of Universal Credit, have made letting to councils a less attractive proposition for private landlords
Universal Credit Local Housing Allowance rates
20 June, 2019
Monthly Universal Credit Local Housing Allowance rates for England, Scotland and Wales from 2014 to 2019
Five week Universal credit wait having a devastating impact on disabled people
19 June, 2019
Disabled people face unavoidable costs as a result of their disability
Universal credit is failing military veterans
18 June, 2019
Veterans with complex needs report overwhelmingly negative experiences of benefits system
Harrogate's great migration: why the leafy district has been chosen to trial Universal Credit
18 June, 2019
Picturesque Harrogate is the first area chosen to trial migration to Universal Credit
Disabled people receiving Support for Mortgage Interest will now be able to transfer this when moving home
18 June, 2019
Disabled people and others receiving Support for Mortgage Interest will now be able to transfer this support to their new property when moving home
Government to seek volunteers for first switch to Universal Credit
14 June, 2019
The government will seek volunteers to become the first people to switch directly from the old benefits system to Universal Credit
Single mother wins court battle after being forced into homelessness due to housing benefit shortfall
13 June, 2019
Supreme Court rules it was unlawful for Birmingham Council to try force mother-of-four to spend money intended for basic daily living needs on rent because housing benefit had been reduced
Universal credit delays a factor in sex work
13 June, 2019
Minister apologises for DWP memo dismissing link between long waits and survival sex work
Universal Credit responsible for increasing rent arrears
12 June, 2019
Universal credit has greatly increased rent arrears, with immediate action now needed in order to tackle the issue
Supreme Court rules that subsistence benefits should not be used to cover rent shortfalls
12 June, 2019
The Supreme Court has just given judgment in the case of Samuels v Birmingham City Council, where the court was asked to consider whether a home should have been considered affordable where the housing benefit did not meet the full rent
Around 1 in 2 Universal Credit claimants have benefit deducted to repay an Advance Payment
12 June, 2019
Around 1 in 2 of Universal Credit claimants have a deduction to repay an Advance Payment
Holyrood challenges Westminster on Universal Credit rent arrears
12 June, 2019
But delegates at Housing Scotland 2019 get talk of "compassion" from DWP boss
Universal Credit: 29 April 2013 to 9 May 2019
11 June, 2019
These experimental statistics cover the number of people and households on Universal Credit, starts and claims
Minister slammed for speaking 'DWP waffle' during Commons debate
07 June, 2019
Rent arrears raised at Westminster Hall session on Universal Credit and debt
Esther McVey sparks Universal Credit fury on Andrew Marr by claiming she's not to blame for flaws
07 June, 2019
The MP was asked whether she regretted the effects of the controversial benefits system
Universal Credit blasted for 'turning families into Government guinea pigs'
07 June, 2019
Spiralling debts and suicide attempts - MP lays bare the horror of Universal Credit in savage new attack
Millions more Universal Credit claimants to have rents paid straight to landlord
07 June, 2019
Under new rules, private renters will be offered the chance to enrol in a system that could make their budgeting a lot simpler
Derby Jobcentre worker defends Universal Credit and claims it's brilliant
07 June, 2019
There have been success stories
Universal Credit Advance Payments are pushing people to use food banks
06 June, 2019
A quarter of all Universal Credit claimants had payments reduced by above 20% to pay back a debt, including Advance Payments. Four in ten were paying over 10%
Universal Credit: ever-growing number of people left in arrears
05 June, 2019
Universal Credit is still pushing tens of thousands into financial crisis just weeks ahead of the second half of its introduction
Universal Credit claimants with tax credit overpayments
31 May, 2019
This publication provides ad hoc statistics about Universal Credit customers with tax credit overpayment debts
Universal Credit: charity launches complaint over DWP ad campaign
30 May, 2019
An anti-poverty charity has lodged an official complaint over a government-backed Universal Credit ad campaign, claiming the content is "deliberately misleading"
Universal Credit: 120,000 people on the DWP benefit have fallen behind on rent payments, with some being evicted from council houses
29 May, 2019
Universal Credit is causing hardship and debt for many of our tenants
Universal Credit in Crisis: Hundreds of struggling Sussex residents leave councils with £1million deficit
29 May, 2019
Struggling Sussex Universal Credit claimants are in financial crisis with unpaid bills leaving them hundreds of pounds in debt
Universal credit scam leaves vulnerable UK families penniless
24 May, 2019
Councils and police warn of fraudsters posing as officials to steal claimants' details
DWP probes universal credit fraud case
24 May, 2019
A Department for Work and Pensions minister will investigate a fraudulent loan company that stole an applicant's identity to apply for universal credit
Universal Credit delays left nurse so desperate for cash she sold her kids' toys and racked up thousands in debts - and says it's 'destroyed' her
24 May, 2019
Therese Nakitende says receiving the Universal Credit she is owed has been like "getting blood from a stone"
The DWP's Universal Credit propaganda tells you everything you need to know about this government
23 May, 2019
The DWP have spent £250,000 on an advert attempting to depict criticism of Universal Credit as fake news
Universal credit hardship 'linked to prostitution'
22 May, 2019
Benefits reform forcing women to sell sex for cash, food or shelter, MPs' committee told
NUJ condemns DWP adverts as an insult to disabled people
22 May, 2019
The National Union of Journalists has condemned the DWP for running a misleading PR campaign about Universal Credit
The DWP's "Universal Credit Uncovered" newspaper advert backfires
22 May, 2019
A four-page "advertisement feature" in Metro attempts to bust myths - but simply reinforces the welfare system's problems
Universal Credit loan company fraud claim: Minister intervenes
21 May, 2019
A minister is urgently investigating how a woman was duped by an online loan company that pocketed her benefits
Universal credit: 10% deducted from claimants
20 May, 2019
Our benefits system was created to anchor people from being swept into poverty - so why is the government clawing back £1 in every £10 paid to people most in need of our support?
MPs demand details of DWP's universal credit advertorials
17 May, 2019
Amber Rudd challenged on cost of campaign and accuracy of its claims about new benefit
'Last resort' Universal Credit deductions top £39m
17 May, 2019
Figure for sums taken for essential services in October last year is up from a £9m statistical start in April 2017
Digitisation still a challenge for housing associations
15 May, 2019
A new survey of housing association senior managers has found that they're slow to catch up to customer's expectations around digital services and start benefiting from the efficiency gains of digital
Londoners discriminated against 'because they're on benefits'
15 May, 2019
Having interviewed tenants on housing benefits before, I knew that calling round estate agents trying to find properties to rent to them was going to be difficult
Universal Credit debt advice tool gets 9,000+ visits in three months
14 May, 2019
Money and Pension Service's money guidance contact centre was also received around 1,100 enquiries regarding Universal Credit
Universal Credit sparks rent arrears crisis as council's housing income falls by £28m
14 May, 2019
Council chiefs launched pilot scheme to slow down mounting debts from tenants
Universal Credit: 29 April 2013 to 11 April 2019
14 May, 2019
Official experimental statistics including the number of people and households on Universal Credit, starts and claims
Labour would trial universal basic income if elected
13 May, 2019
Shadow chancellor says pilot schemes would be held in Liverpool, Sheffield and the Midlands
Rudd announces Universal Credit sanction changes
10 May, 2019
Secretary of State for Work and Pensions has ended financial sanctions for claimants that last for three years - the longest length will now be six months
Social landlords offered 'solution' to Universal Credit arrears
10 May, 2019
Study of five registered landlords finds an £60,000-£130,000 increase in rent arrears per thousand tenants
Association calls for amendment to Universal Credit shortfall
10 May, 2019
Curo has identified many tenants struggling to cover the cost of their weekly rent
Low Universal Credit levels leaving people at risk of homelessness
09 May, 2019
The money residents on Universal Credit are receiving through benefit payments is falling behind renting costs in London and putting people across the capital at risk of becoming homeless
People in Derbyshire are living on '£2 a day' because of Universal Credit
09 May, 2019
The system has also caused significant problems for the Trust including a "large increase" in arrears
Providers and tenants short-changed over UC
08 May, 2019
Issue initially ignored by DWP now seen as posing a serious problem for housing providers and tenants
DWP staff 'do not grasp' UC guidance
08 May, 2019
Council says its staff had to tell Universal Credit staff how their own rules and regulations worked
Slow response to universal credit errors 'bizarre'
07 May, 2019
DWP officials took months to correct payment mistakes
UC support to those with severe disabilities 'unlawful'
03 May, 2019
The High Court declaration represents the latest blow to the DWP and Universal Credit
Universal credit regulations ruled unlawful by high court
03 May, 2019
Terms would leave thousands with severe disabilities worse off by about £100 a month
Former top judge says UC 'breaches rule of law'
02 May, 2019
Further scathing criticism for the reform said to show a systemic failure to meet basic legal standards
Benefit Cap: number of households capped to February 2019
02 May, 2019
Statistics on households that have had their benefits capped between 15 April 2013 and February 2019
Universal credit is 'Orwellian'
01 May, 2019
Sir Stephen Sedley says digital benefits system is also failing to meet legal obligations
Universal credit claimants being underpaid as they are 'left in the dark' about entitlements
01 May, 2019
'Inadequate' communications and administrative errors risk claimants being underpaid
Benefit claimants at risk of 'destitution' if DWP fails to prepare for Universal Credit roll-out
01 May, 2019
The DWP risks leaving benefit claimants "destitute" if it fails to properly prepare for the roll-out of Universal Credit
Universal credit claimants left in the dark about their entitlements
01 May, 2019
Universal credit claimants are routinely in the dark about how much they should receive
Report reveals UC pressures on frontline staff
26 April, 2019
Concerns are raised around the "managed migration" process of placing benefit claimants onto Universal Credit
Universal credit and its impact on household incomes: the long and the short of it
24 April, 2019
n this research we investigate who wins and loses from universal credit, and by how much
Almost two million people will lose £1,000 a year with UC
24 April, 2019
Those claiming disability benefits will be the worst affected
From the frontline - Universal Credit officer Trevor Davies
16 April, 2019
Trevor Davies, Universal Credit officer at County Durham Housing Group, tells us about helping tenants to manage their finances and his frustration at having to issue food vouchers
Universal Credit: 29 April 2013 to 14 March 2019
16 April, 2019
Official experimental statistics for the number of people on Universal Credit
Calls for Universal Credit housing benefit to automatically go to landlords
15 April, 2019
Calls have been made for the housing element of Universal Credit to automatically go to landlords
DWP to restore disability benefits of woman it called 'lying bitch'
15 April, 2019
Department does U-turn, amid calls for it to be stripped of delivering disability benefits
DWP accused of treating UC inquiry 'like dirt'
11 April, 2019
MPs want the Department for Work and Pensions to give a fresh response to their report on childcare
UC creates 'systematic indebtedness' for new claimants
04 April, 2019
A SFHA survey reveals levels of arrears for tenants is much higher when they claim Universal Credit
Study found universal credit causing hardship a year and half ago
04 April, 2019
Joint DWP and HMRC report was released on Thursday but dated November 2017
The DWP claims it costs too much to confirm UC deaths
03 April, 2019
Commons correspondence has the department ducking behind "disproportionate cost" over death rates
DWP Alternative Payment Arrangements
01 April, 2019
Universal Credit prepares claimants for the world of work in which 75% of employees are paid monthly
Landlords With Tenants On Universal Credit Should Get A Tax Break
22 March, 2019
Property barons who let homes to social tenants should be encouraged
Universal credit: More than half of claimants have money deducted from payments
21 March, 2019
Deductions made when claimants have outstanding debts with their utility companies or landlord
'Flippant' DWP minister says many tenants in rent arrears before claiming UC
21 March, 2019
But Justin Tomlinson acknowledges analysis is underway with social housing providers as to the "true level" of arrears
'I'm 57 and my parents have to feed me': the universal credit digital obstacle course
19 March, 2019
The digital-by-default benefit is causing problems for up to half of all claimants
Universal basic income 'would cost less than value of benefit cuts since 2025'
18 March, 2019
Economists' report follows plan from New Economics Foundation in backing proposal
800,000 claimants 'could have been' forced onto UC without transition cash
12 March, 2019
Work and Pensions Committee hears it's "hard to estimate" how many joining the system are existing claimants whose circumstances had changed
Pay compensation for universal credit errors
11 March, 2019
Amends for officials mistakes' should match benefit sanctions
Anger as tenants told 'pay a little extra each week' to avoid Universal Credit rent arrears
11 March, 2019
Families say they're already struggling and will find it hard to find the money to make up the shortfall
Universal Credit pilot to launch in North Yorkshire
11 March, 2019
The Work and Pensions Secretary has announced that benefit claimants in Harrogate will be the first to move from old style benefits to Universal Credit
Ensuring Universal Credit doesn't disadvantage women
08 March, 2019
The structural financial inequalities faced by women in work are well documented, with the UK gender pay gap still sitting at 8.6% for full time employees
Dad blasts Universal Credit over fears family 'could lose hundreds of pounds'
04 March, 2019
Gary Prince has been told if he comes off housing benefits he would forfeit the £470 per month child tax credits
Three-quarters of Universal Credit claimants unaware of missed rent consequences
01 March, 2019
Three-quarters of Universal Credit claimants are unaware that their housing cost payments can be cut if they miss the rent
DWP 'preparing answers' on Universal Credit satisfaction rates
01 March, 2019
Parliamentary question probes extent of differentiation between live and full service on overall satisfaction rates
DWP to fix rent change process for Universal Credit claimants
28 February, 2019
Ministers have agreed to amend the way rent changes for social tenants claiming Universal Credit are processed, easing the administrative burden for landlords
Universal Credit full service omnibus survey
28 February, 2019
This report presents findings from 2 waves of tracking research with recent Universal Credit full service claimants
More than 235,000 Universal Credit claimants have had payments cut
27 February, 2019
The payment cuts mean more people are struggling to make ends meet
SFHA calls for pause to Universal Credit 'natural' migration
27 February, 2019
Concern that change of circumstance claimants 'naturally' migrated will not benefit from safeguards
Council owed £400k in rent after universal credit roll out
26 February, 2019
People on universal credit are leaving Brighton and Hove City Council almost £400,000 short when it comes to paying their rent
Childcare providers and nursery school owners hit by Universal Credit cuts
22 February, 2019
DWP rules mean funding for providing childcare is being treated as personal income
Universal Credit could be overhauled after government admits rent payments problem
22 February, 2019
The move could affect thousands of Merseysiders
DWP concedes to issue with calculating UC for social tenants
20 February, 2019
Letter to landlords confirms changes are being considered over the 53-week rent year
No figures for UC free prescription penalty notices
20 February, 2019
Parliamentary question raises issue of penalty notices for claimants with valid entitlement to free prescriptions
Applications to South Tyneside Council for 'crisis loans' from struggling families have surged since the roll out of Universal Credit
20 February, 2019
The numbers appealing to South Tyneside Council's Welfare Support Team has leapt by about 200%
Universal Credit can loosen the grip of poverty, but further reform is needed
20 February, 2019
Universal Credit has the potential to help families locked in poverty, but the Government must make urgent improvements in its design, funding and delivery if it is not to drive some towards destitution
'I'm only eating one meal a day': How Universal Credit is 'failing' self-employed people
20 February, 2019
Mark Sorensen, 28, a self-employed furniture designer, says he feels 'dehumanised' by the system
Universal Credit: 29 April 2013 to 10 January 2019
19 February, 2019
Official experimental statistics including the number of people and households on Universal Credit, starts and claims
Universal Credit statistics: revision to number of people on Universal Credit and restoration of data on durations
19 February, 2019
Notice about a revision to the people on Universal Credit figures, and the restoration of data on the durations of time spent by individuals on Universal Credit
DWP inflexible over UC assessment flexibility
18 February, 2019
Minister references regulation to claim claimants face "uncertainty" without fixed start dates for assessment periods
There's a way to change Universal Credit payments from one monthly installment
18 February, 2019
If you're struggling, there's a way to reorganise payments
Managing Money on Universal Credit
14 February, 2019
How design and delivery of Universal credit affects how people manage their money
May winces under PMQ 'friendly fire' over UC
14 February, 2019
PM visibly uncomfortable to hear Tory MP say welfare state was "no longer holding up the most vulnerable - but dragging them down"
Skint Britain: Friends without Benefits Episode 1 Clip
14 February, 2019
When the residents of Hartlepool became guinea pigs for the roll out of Universal Credit a series of events were triggered that even the government didn't predict
The effect 'bedroom tax' and Universal Credit is having on people in North Tyneside
13 February, 2019
North Tyneside Council is considering building small 'starter homes' to help cash-strapped renters
Welsh housing minister writes to Rudd over 53-week Universal Credit issue
13 February, 2019
A Welsh housing minister has written to work and pensions secretary Amber Rudd expressing concern that social tenants on Universal Credit will lose out next year because of a quirk in the calendar
Rents at risk without DWP data share
13 February, 2019
Welsh providers fear tenants falling behind on payments without advance notice of Universal Credit transfers
Universal credit rollout linked to rising food bank use
12 February, 2019
Work and pensions secretary says benefit payment delays could have led to increase
Government refuses to act on DWP 'inhumanity'
12 February, 2019
Potential overhaul of DWP sanctions is fobbed off, despite admission that Universal Credit has led to rocketing foodbank use
UC claimants refusing zero-hour jobs risk sanction
08 February, 2019
But DWP minister skirts around the issue of such sanctions as policy
UC rollout to 'worsen' NI housing crisis
08 February, 2019
Recent NIHE report showed almost 20,950 children in families waiting for social housing and at least 13,636 in 'housing stress'
Who's who: Islington's rough sleeping chief slams short-term tenancies
07 February, 2019
Islington' Council's new permanent street sleeping chief Sarah Turley speaks to Lucas Cumiskey about austerity, Universal Credit and short term tenancies and the impact they are having
DWP claims 53-week year will not affect tenants on Universal Credit
07 February, 2019
The government has shifted its position to claim that the 53 rent weeks next financial year will not have an impact on social tenants receiving Universal Credit
RLA urges a right to direct UC rent payments
06 February, 2019
Citizen's Advice report reveals 49% of those it helps with Universal Credit are in arrears over housing payments
Universal Credit: 'I've nearly lost my house twice'
06 February, 2019
A mother of three says she has nearly been made homeless twice in two years due to the new Universal Credit benefits system
Act now to fix Universal Credit
06 February, 2019
Research by the National Landlords Association has found that 73 per cent of landlords who let to tenants on Universal Credit have experienced rent arrears in the last year.
Call for universal credit overhaul amid fears of looming evictions crisis
05 February, 2019
Citizens Advice reveals half of claimants seeking benefits assistance are at risk of being evicted
Gender of bank account holders on Universal Credit
31 January, 2019
Ad hoc statistics on couples claiming Universal Credit (UC), specifically the gender of the person whose bank account receives the UC payment
13,000 tenants in Wales at risk of UC underpayment
30 January, 2019
Community Housing Cymru calls on UK Government to change UC formula to account for year-on-year flexibility
Universal Credit technicality threatens hundreds of thousands with underpayment
25 January, 2019
Hundreds of thousands of social housing tenants on Universal Credit are set to have their housing costs underpaid in the next financial year due to a quirk in the calendar which means 53 weekly rent payments will fall due
DWP landlord rent payment portal won't be live until Summer
23 January, 2019
With the heat on, the London Assembly Housing Committee hears the portal is still some way off
MP seeks 'crucial' Universal Credit reforms over domestic abuse risk
23 January, 2019
An SNP MP has urged the UK Government to accept amendments to its Domestic Abuse Bill to tackle the increased risk of financial abuse under the current Universal Credit system
Commons committee launches inquiry into 'natural migration' to Universal Credit
23 January, 2019
The UK Parliament's work and pensions committee is today launching a new inquiry into the process by which people claiming existing benefits move onto Universal Credit if they have a change in their circumstances
Universal Credit: 29 April 2013 to 13 December 2018
22 January, 2019
These experimental statistics cover the number of people on Universal Credit to 13 December 2018
53-week rent year, rent reduction and Universal Credit - briefing
21 January, 2019
We've produced a briefing focusing on the upcoming 53-week rent year and how this impacts on rent reduction and the calculation of Universal Credit
Universal Credit - latest news for housing associations
21 January, 2019
We set out the latest updates on Universal Credit, including a proposed change to the way rent is paid to landlords and the Christmas early payment schedule
Government welfare watchdog questions Universal Credit managed migration pilot
16 January, 2019
Ministers' proposals for the 10,000-person pilot for moving existing benefit claimants onto Universal Credit could prove a missed opportunity
More than 17,000 sick and disabled people have died while waiting for welfare benefits
15 January, 2019
Ministers accused of 'failing people at the most vulnerable point in their lives' after it emerges nine disability claimants die each day while waiting for decisions on disability support
The Universal Credit (Managed Migration Pilot and Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2019: SSAC correspondence
15 January, 2019
A letter to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions about the Universal Credit (Managed Migration Pilot and Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2019
Could changes to Universal Credit now persuade landlords and agents to accept housing benefit tenants?
14 January, 2019
The Government is to start working on an online system that will let private landlords access rents directly from tenants on Universal Credit
Amber Rudd announces further Universal Credit changes - at a job centre
14 January, 2019
But latest concessions still come with a defence of 'principle' and no acknowledgement of damage done
Four single mothers win high court benefits battle against DWP
14 January, 2019
Women succeed with action over 'fundamental problem' with universal credit system
Universal credit to be paid to main carer in attempt to help women
11 January, 2019
Work and pensions secretary Amber Rudd unveils package of changes to benefits system
Universal Credit: personal welfare
11 January, 2019
A speech delivered by the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions at Kennington jobcentre about the future of Universal Credit
Amber Rudd sets out fresh approach to Universal Credit
11 January, 2019
Work and Pensions Secretary Amber Rudd sets out an ambitious new future for Universal Credit
Rudd 'still considering' when to give MPs vote on Universal Credit roll-out
09 January, 2019
Amber Rudd has told MPs she is "still considering" when they will be given a vote on the full and final roll-out Universal Credit
Universal credit: Vote to extend benefit to three million delayed
07 January, 2019
The next stage of the universal credit rollout is to be scaled back amid concerns about the controversial new benefits system
DWP agrees to change Universal Credit direct payments schedule
07 January, 2019
Direct rent payments to social landlords for tenants claiming Universal Credit will change to be paid on a monthly cycle
Stealthy changes mean that soon one in five families with children will be losing some Child Benefit
07 January, 2019
Six years ago today, Child Benefit was first withdrawn from families containing someone whose annual income is above £50,000 a year
Life on Universal Credit: Father, 42, who suffered heart attack and has 4% kidney function forced to live in a freezing cold caravan
07 January, 2019
Martin Weaver says he had to give up his one-bedroom flat as he couldn't afford the rent - he now sometimes stays in lay-bys without heat
Council rent arrears expected to double as impact of Universal Credit begins to bite
04 January, 2019
Rent arrears from council tenants are expected to double in Barnsley as the full impact of the Government's switch to the controversial Universal Credit system takes hold
Those claiming the Universal Credit roll-out was well intentioned aren't affected by it. My family was
03 January, 2019
My dad's phone pings at 3:40am on a Sunday. "You need to read a message in your Universal Credit journal"
Universal credit: Surge in families begging for money online as benefit plunges households into destitution
02 January, 2019
Number of people crowdfunding for donations to help them afford housing, bills and other basic necessities on universal credit rises five-fold in a year
Universal Credit: 250,000 parents and workers forced onto benefit WITHOUT full protection
02 January, 2019
Tories claim existing benefit claimants won't see their income drop. Yet 273,747 people were forced to leave Tax Credits and join the new system without proper protection in just one year
Bron Afon residents in Torfaen are £74,000 in arrears since the introduction of Universal Credit
02 January, 2019
Social housing tenants in Torfaen have been struggling to keep up with their rent since Universal Credit was introduced in the area
Hard-up Walsall people suffering due to Universal Credit
02 January, 2019
It is claimed that recipients are facing increased debt and rent arrears
DWP say working families on Universal Credit will get £630 extra from Saturday April 6
01 January, 2019
April 6 is the day to look out for when working families in the UK get a little bit extra money in their pockets
Get in debt or turn down job? Universal Credit's 'stark choice'
24 December, 2018
The Universal Credit system leaves too many UK claimants with children facing a stark choice between turning down jobs or getting into debt
Universal Credit's 'stark choice' for claimants with children
24 December, 2018
The Work and Pensions Select Committee says the way parents pay for childcare up front, then claim it back afterwards is a "barrier to work"
Universal Credit - latest news for housing associations
21 December, 2018
We set out the latest updates on Universal Credit, including a proposed change to the way rent is paid to landlords and the Christmas early payment schedule
Struggling with universal credit in Hartlepool
20 December, 2018
Universal credit was designed to simplify the benefits system, but its introduction has seen some people worse off, and some have had difficulty claiming their money
Rudd will consider Universal Credit rollout delay to boost 'public confidence'
19 December, 2018
Work and Pensions Secretary strikes conciliatory tone before Commons committee
Universal Credit migration could be 'disastrous' for disabled people
18 December, 2018
Universal Credit could have "disastrous" consequences for disabled people if the managed migration goes ahead as currently planned
Social security watchdog warns on planned Universal Credit switchover
17 December, 2018
The government should not force all claimants to make a fresh application for benefits to avoid payments being cut off, when Universal Credit is rolled out to existing claimants next year
Figures suggest Universal Credit is driving homelessness and evictions
14 December, 2018
Households relying on Universal Credit may be more than twice as likely to become homeless or evicted from social housing as those on the old benefit system
Research finds most landlords won't let to previously homeless youths
14 December, 2018
Only 19% of private landlords would let to a young person claiming Universal Credit
Starting to bite: how Universal Credit is making people homeless
14 December, 2018
New figures unearthed by Inside Housing suggest Universal Credit could be pushing more people into homelessness
Gordon Brown: I didn't think I'd see child poverty again in my lifetime
14 December, 2018
Ex-chancellor's tax credits started to erase problem - but universal credit reverses trend
Universal Credit: how we got here
13 December, 2018
The first stage of Universal Credit was fully rolled out this week
Universal Credit (Managed Migration) Regulations 2018: SSAC correspondence
13 December, 2018
Correspondence between SSAC and DWP about The Universal Credit (Managed Migration) Regulations 2018
A rock and a hard place: the Universal Credit frontline
12 December, 2018
Universal Credit was meant to simplify the welfare system and give people control over their finances
Committee warns of 'insufficient information' on key Universal Credit regulations
12 December, 2018
A committee has warned the House of Lords has "insufficient information" to approve crucial regulations paving the way for the next stage of Universal Credit
Universal Credit rolled out to whole of UK
12 December, 2018
Universal Credit has today reached every Jobcentre in the UK - meaning new benefit claimants will no longer be able to use the old welfare system
Universal Credit desperation: Cash is soaked up at alarming rate
11 December, 2018
Stafford people need the financial help to survive
Campaigners in 'frontline fight' against Universal Credit evictions
11 December, 2018
National Housing Summit hears of a need to fight UC arrears evictions on the same terms as the fight against Section 21
Universal Credit: 29 April 2013 to 8 November 2018
11 December, 2018
These experimental statistics cover the number of people on Universal Credit to 8 November 2018
Universal Credit was underpaid by £30m last year
10 December, 2018
The Department for Work and Pensions underpaid Universal Credit by £30m last year, two-thirds of which was down to 'official error'
Grenfell Tower MP calls for Universal Credit launch delay
10 December, 2018
The MP whose seat is home to Grenfell Tower has urged the government to delay next week's launch of Universal Credit in the area, saying it could leave survivors without income at Christmas
Universal credit is 'broken'
30 November, 2018
Average levels of rent arrears among council tenants on universal credit are more than three times the level of those on legacy benefits
Universal Credit tenants slip back into rent arrears after long period
29 November, 2018
Tenants claiming Universal Credit for long periods persistently struggle to pay their rent and even build up more arrears despite government attempts to improve the situation
Universal credit problems and rise of food bank use
29 November, 2018
Universal credit is a new system which rolls six benefits into one payment
UC roll-out means 100,000 children facing family hardship over Christmas
28 November, 2018
Housing provider says majority of the 110,000 UK households now moving to UC will have to borrow money to see them though the festive season
DWP launches awareness campaign for Universal Credit landlord portal
27 November, 2018
The government has launched a campaign to improve the understanding of Universal Credit among landlords
Universal Credit: Single mums take government to court
27 November, 2018
A single mum who relies on universal credit is challenging the government's benefits scheme for being "irrational"
Universal Credit and homeless people
27 November, 2018
Information about Universal Credit for homeless people, those at risk of homelessness and the organisations supporting them
Police Scotland link robbery rise with UK benefits changes
26 November, 2018
Police Scotland has claimed UK government benefit changes may be linked to a rise in robberies
Food banks fear winter crisis as universal credit is rolled out
26 November, 2018
Charities are stockpiling emergency supplies and appealing for donations and volunteers
Universal Credit leaves ex-builder with just '£14 a fortnight' to live on
26 November, 2018
Mark Harris has been forced to use a Foodbank as he struggles to survive on Universal Credit
Big re-boot for the Universal Credit Landlord Portal
26 November, 2018
DWP launches six-week campaign promoting the portal a month after RLA warned of rent arrears reinforcing need for urgent change
Universal credit: More than half of people denied benefit have cases overturned on appeal
26 November, 2018
Hundreds of vulnerable people left out of pocket for months due to incorrect refusals, with true number of wrong decisions likely to be far higher
Is Universal Credit the Tories' number one priority?
26 November, 2018
During a Politics Live discussion on universal credit, the Times columnist Rachel Sylvester said she was shocked at the benefit system#s continued roll out
Amber Rudd recognises 'real problems' with Universal Credit
23 November, 2018
New work and pensions secretary pledges to help out single parents who are signed up to the scheme
MPs call for government to delay parliament vote on Universal Credit roll-out
22 November, 2018
A cross-party group of MPs has urged ministers to delay the next parliamentary vote on the migration of Universal Credit until after the government's benefit policy watchdog has assessed its plans
Universal Credit is coming to Burton, Stafford and Cannock
20 November, 2018
It has proved controversial so far
Govan Law Centre launches Universal Credit campaign
20 November, 2018
Govan Law Centre has called for a new resilience strategy to challenge the adverse impact of Universal Credit in Scotland
Rudd offers 'same old, same old' over Universal Credit
20 November, 2018
New Work & Pensions Secretary goes into denial over UN report that accused ministers of going into denial
'I was forced into prostitution by Universal Credit'
19 November, 2018
The Universal Credit benefits system is forcing some women to turn to sex work
Amber Rudd to inherit Universal Credit roll-out
19 November, 2018
New Secretary of State for Work and Pensions named on the day a damning UN report says rising UK poverty is a "political choice"
Universal credit: Amber Rudd to listen to 'expert guidance'
19 November, 2018
Work and Pensions Secretary Amber Rudd has agreed to listen "very carefully" to concerns over universal credit, conceding the system "can be better"
The impact of the roll out of Universal Credit in two North East England localities: a qualitative study
16 November, 2018
"It's hitting people that can least afford it the hardest"
Universal credit linked to suicide risk
16 November, 2018
Research for Gateshead council finds system increases depression and anxiety
Income-related benefits: estimates of take-up: financial year 2016 to 2017
15 November, 2018
Estimates of take-up of income-related benefits for Great Britain for the financial year 2016 to 2017
Draft Universal Credit (Managed Migration) Regulations 2018: SSAC report and government statement
14 November, 2018
A Social Security Advisory Committee (SSAC) report on the draft Universal Credit Regulations 2018, and the government's response
Universal Credit: 29 April 2013 to 11 October 2018
13 November, 2018
These experimental statistics cover the number of people on Universal Credit to 11 October 2018
Universal credit will cost more than system it replaces
12 November, 2018
600,000 families could be worse off
Universal credit: Rent arrears double for benefit claimants
12 November, 2018
Council tenants on universal credit have on average more than double the rent arrears of those still on housing benefit
Back in Credit? Universal Credit after Budget 2018
12 November, 2018
The Budget 2018 work allowance increase means that the number of working families that gain from the switch to UC increases by 200,000
One in 10 rental homes advertised as excluding benefits claimants
08 November, 2018
Shelter says landlords insisting 'no DSS' causes misery and is likely to be unlawful
Government open to 'data share' between housing associations and DWP
07 November, 2018
SSAC report on Universal Credit commits to "further discussions" on data sharing to help manage claimant migration
LIN member report November 2018 - The Autumn Budget
06 November, 2018
LIN member report by Kevin McCready
Universal credit leading to rise in food bank use
06 November, 2018
Trussell Trust says benefits system is failing to protect claimants from hunger
Universal credit: Claimants 'to get more time to switch'
06 November, 2018
Universal credit claimants will be given more time to switch to the new benefit
MPs: protect housing allowance from benefit sanctions
06 November, 2018
The government must stop deducting money from Universal Credit claimants' allowances if they have already been 'sanctioned'
Sharma rejects scrutiny of new Universal Credit rules
06 November, 2018
Work & Pensions Committee won't get new rules ahead of Commons because that would "diverge from the standard process"
MPs urged to consider voting down new rules on universal credit
05 November, 2018
Frank Field fears new regulations on switching to the benefit could leave many people worse off and struggling to cope
McVey concedes to 'more careful planning' over UC roll out
05 November, 2018
Commons hears of new measures to ease migration following Budget announcement of an extra £2.7bn to boost the 'reform'
Half of Scots opt for alternative Universal Credit payments
01 November, 2018
Almost half of those in receipt of Universal Credit chose the Scottish Government's alternative payment options when offered
Universal Credit predicted to cost more than existing benefits system
01 November, 2018
Universal Credit will cost billions more than the existing benefits system over the next five years
Grenfell Survivors Facing Universal Credit Roll-Out Just Days Before Christmas
31 October, 2018
DWP accused of 'sneaking out' plan on Budget day
Universal credit rollout 'loads unreasonable risk' on to claimants
31 October, 2018
Government adviser Sir Ian Diamond says thousands could be pushed into hardship
Hammond announces extra funding for Universal Credit
30 October, 2018
Philip Hammond has announced plans to pump more money into Universal Credit in the Autumn Budget today
Labour: vote down budget if it fails to halt universal credit rollout
29 October, 2018
John McDonnell urges MPs to unite to stop the chancellor 'forcing people into poverty'
How universal credit is fuelling Britain's homelessness crisis
29 October, 2018
Observer investigation finds system in chaos, putting chancellor under pressure to change tack
Homeless charity head 'gagged' over universal credit remarks
29 October, 2018
A charity head said she was told her organisation may miss out on National Lottery funding if she continued to criticise universal credit
Universal credit: Ministers 'in denial'
26 October, 2018
The government has been accused of presiding over a "culture of indifference" about the hardship caused by universal credit
NatWest to review lending after benefits criticism
26 October, 2018
The bank has been under pressure to change its practices after stories came out showing it refused to lend if the private landlord rented to a benefits claimant
DWP 'adrift from the real world' over Universal Credit
26 October, 2018
As if to reinforce the damning accusation from a key Commons committee, DWP minister Alok Sharma denies that rise in food bank use is solely down to UC roll-out
Housing coalition reaches out to DWP over Universal Credit support
25 October, 2018
Plea for DWP to treat supported housing providers as 'partners' to ease the impact of the roll-out on vulnerable claimants
Universal credit stops parents returning to work
24 October, 2018
Group of mothers tell Commons committee that system is unwieldy
Stephen Lloyd MP: Work should always pay - so why aren't we investing in Universal Credit?
24 October, 2018
The Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Work & Pensions repeats his party's stance on Universal Credit following a speech by Sir Vince Cable today
Government urged to intervene over banks refusing mortgages for landlords renting to benefit claimants
22 October, 2018
RLA is urging the Government to intervene to stop mortgage lenders discriminating against Universal Credit claimants
Universal credit is backward step in tackling domestic abuse
22 October, 2018
Home affairs committee report urges government to scrap single household payments
Speculation mounts as to how bad 'secret' government UC assessments are
19 October, 2018
Tories dogged Commons resistance to releasing briefing papers and analyses on UC impact taken as hiding damning findings
Temporary accommodation no guarantee of UC transitional protection
19 October, 2018
Commons scrutiny session hears director general of the Universal Credit programme ask housing associations for help in moving tenants through the roll out
Labour fails to force government to release universal credit impact assessments
18 October, 2018
Commons votes down opposition attempt to use arcane parliamentary procedure to publish documents
Universal credit: Should the benefit be paid weekly instead of monthly?
18 October, 2018
Universal credit is paid monthly based on the idea that the majority of people in work are paid monthly
Landlords report surge in arrears among Universal Credit tenants
17 October, 2018
Almost two-thirds of landlords with tenants receiving Universal Credit have experienced a big surge in rental arrears
Labour seeks to force publication of universal credit impact analysis
17 October, 2018
Party to use opposition day debate to demand briefings on impact of changes
Government defeats Labour attempts to release UC impact papers
17 October, 2018
The government has narrowly triumphed in a Commons vote on Universal Credit
Commons bid to force release of Universal Credit impact papers
17 October, 2018
Labour try Brexit tactics to expose the extent of the government's own UC assessments in special debate session
Universal credit rollout delayed yet again
16 October, 2018
Ministers have bowed to pressure and are planning to further delay the rollout of the flagship welfare reform, universal credit
Universal Credit: 29 April 2013 to 13 September 2018
16 October, 2018
These experimental statistics cover the number of people on Universal Credit to 13 September 2018
Millions to lose £52 a week with universal credit
15 October, 2018
Pressure on chancellor to announce increase in benefit funds in budget
Nearly two-thirds of PRS tenants claiming Universal Credit in arrears
15 October, 2018
Increasing numbers of private renters in receipt of Universal Credit are finding themselves in rent arrears
Universal credit? If Iain Duncan Smith is an architect of anything, it's misery
15 October, 2018
Only a dangerous politician favours simple fixes to complex problems - they have a way of causing hardship to millions
£2bn to 'save' Universal Credit blows budget plans
15 October, 2018
Government has to balance between tax cuts and a simmering back-bench rebellion over the roll-out of UC
Charities working with Universal Credit claimants required to 'sign contracts to protect Esther McVey's reputation'
12 October, 2018
Department for Work and Pensions denies they are 'gagging clauses'
Former housing minister faces grilling over Universal Credit roll out
12 October, 2018
Alok Sharma to questioned by Commons committee on government preparation for mass UC migration
Arrears for Welsh housing association tenants on Universal Credit up 150%
11 October, 2018
Housing associations in Wales have seen rent arrears among tenants claiming Universal Credit rise 150% since December
Universal credit could repeat poll tax problems
11 October, 2018
Benefit changes coming into force next year have been compared to the poll tax - the policy that helped end Margaret Thatcher's time as prime minister
Esther McVey: Some to be poorer under universal credit
11 October, 2018
Some people will be worse off under universal credit - but they can take on more work to increase their income
MPs look to grill minister over Universal Credit as criticism mounts
11 October, 2018
The minister responsible for the roll-out of Universal Credit could face a grilling from MPs amid mounting criticism of the controversial changes to the benefits system
Universal Credit plunging Welsh housing association tenants into £2m of debt
11 October, 2018
Stats shows an overall debt increase of 150% since December last year
Halt universal credit or face summer of discontent
10 October, 2018
Ex-Labour leader says Tory welfare scheme could push millions more into poverty
The Universal Credit CON: Millions of British families could lose up to £200-a-month under new benefits changes
08 October, 2018
Millions of families could lose as much as £200 each month under new Universal Credit changes
John McDonnell urges scrapping 'iniquitous' universal credit
08 October, 2018
Shadow chancellor's demands follow warnings families could lose £200 a month in benefits
Labour wants abolition of 'shambolic' Universal Credit
08 October, 2018
And campaigners want DWP to stop hounding carers... and a report to the UN says one in five of Britain's disabled have rights violated
Food bank use will soar after universal credit rollout
05 October, 2018
Trussell Trust calls for urgent changes to policy of moving 3m people on to new system
Poverty charity presses for 'urgent changes' to UC roll-out
05 October, 2018
Leading food bank provider fears soaring demand without safeguards for claimants
Charity defends its Universal Credit link
04 October, 2018
A charity has defended its involvement with the controversial roll-out of UC after a flood of criticism from poverty campaigners
Esther McVey's Universal Credit Funding Vow Under Fire From Poverty Charities
02 October, 2018
Esther McVey pledged £39 million for 'universal support'
Citizens Advice to provide support to Universal Credit claimants
01 October, 2018
The Department for Work and Pensions will fund Citizens Advice to provide Universal Support from April 2019
Work underway to ensure smooth roll-out of Universal Credit benefits in north-east
28 September, 2018
Preparations are under way for the roll-out of a benefit which has previously led to a rise in the number of people applying for crisis loans
The majority of people in North Tyneside who claim Universal Credit are in debt
28 September, 2018
North Tyneside Council says it predicted how the situation would unfold six months after the benefits system was introduced
Harrogate Jobcentre staff seek to bust Universal Credit 'myths'
28 September, 2018
"We don't call it that any more" whispers Harrogate Jobcentre Plus employer and partnership leader Helen Greensit, wincing slightly after hearing the words "signing on"
Housing crisis drives more than 1m private tenants deeper into poverty
24 September, 2018
Lack of social housing and rise in universal credit sanctions hit low-income families hardest
'Yorkshire landlords now less likely to rent to Universal Credit claimants - and bad providers fill gap'
24 September, 2018
A policy director for the National Landlords Association has said that members are far less likely to rent to Universal Credit claimants than people entitled to benefits just six years ago
Universal Credit roll-out in Darlington proves 'a real success'
12 September, 2018
The roll-out of Universal Credit would spell disaster for a borough featuring areas with high levels of deprivation have proved unfounded
Fears for vulnerable as Universal Credit is rolled out in Boston today
12 September, 2018
The controversial new Universal Credit system of paying benefits is due to be rolled out in Boston from today
Universal credit: one in six not paid on time
12 September, 2018
Figures emerge as archbishop of Canterbury calls for benefit system rollout to be stopped
PM accused of 'pouring petrol on Britain's burning injustices'
12 September, 2018
Heated PMQs clash sees Jeremy Corbyn launch a sustained attack on "flawed, failing" Universal Credit and the thousands it was driving to destitution
Universal Credit: in-work progression randomised controlled trial
12 September, 2018
These documents present the findings from the evaluation of the Department for Work and Pensions in-work progression trial
Universal Credit: 29 April 2013 to 9 August 2018
11 September, 2018
These experimental statistics cover the number of people on Universal Credit to 9 August 2018
Universal Credit could be crushed if impending roll out fails
07 September, 2018
Report from the Resolution Foundation makes major recommendations as to how the 'reform' might salvage some public and political credibility
The benefits of moving: Managing the transition of existing claimants to Universal Credit
07 September, 2018
The long implementation of UC has been far from smooth and we've become all too used to negative stories about roll-out delays and, more seriously, payment problems and financial hardship for those accessing the new system
Universal credit could be sunk by next stage of rollout
06 September, 2018
Calls for further delays to fix flaws before million working families move on to benefit
Work Programme (Universal Credit) provider guidance: 2018 contract variation
06 September, 2018
Referrals to this programme ended on 31 March 2017. This guidance is for existing Work Programme participants only
Yorkshire: The following areas will move from Universal Credit live service to full service
04 September, 2018
Jobcentres located in Beverley, Bridlington, Hessle and Goole will shortly be asking their universal credit live customers to move over to universal credit full service
Universal Credit claimants needing food parcels to get by as online struggles revealed
03 September, 2018
Nearly 800 people in one North Yorkshire borough have been moved onto the new benefit and are struggling
Sadiq Khan calls for rollout of universal credit to be paused
31 August, 2018
London mayor says expansion poses 'significant threat of harm' to vulnerable claimants
Sadiq Khan hits out at Universal Credit
31 August, 2018
Mayor of London has issued a warning to government over its flagship welfare reform, saying it will be "the vulnerable who suffer the most"
Social Security Advisory Committee consultation on Universal Credit and next steps for managed migration
31 August, 2018
The RLA has submitted its response to the Social Security Advisory Committee consultation, on Universal Credit and next steps for managed migration
Universal Credit Amendment Regulations: Our response to SSAC consultation
28 August, 2018
JRF's response to a SSAC consultation on proposals in the draft Universal Credit (Transitional Provisions) (Managed Migration) Amendment Regulations 2018
One in three Universal Credit claimants in Brighton and Hove are in employment
28 August, 2018
Thousands of workers in Brighton and Hove are claiming Universal Credit as their low wages are not enough to live on
Universal Credit local authority bulletins 2018
22 August, 2018
Information for all local authority staff about Universal Credit
Universal Credit - Inclusion London's response to the SSAC Committee's consultation on the 2018 regulations
21 August, 2018
Inclusion London believes the Universal Credit system is not fit for purpose and should be stopped and scrapped
Nigel Adams MP defensive over Universal Credit in Leeds visit for rough sleeping strategy launch
14 August, 2018
The Minister for homelessness and rough sleeping has sought to play down the impact that benefits changes may have had on the issue during the launch of a new strategy
Universal Credit: 29 April 2013 to 12 July 2018
14 August, 2018
These experimental statistics cover the number of people on Universal Credit to 12 July 2018
Third of UK's universal credit claimants hit by deductions from payments
13 August, 2018
Cuts to pay rent and utility bill arrears drive people into poverty, warn campaigners
On universal credit, ministers were wrong to ignore us
08 August, 2018
Former top civil servant says his committee raised genuine concerns about the controversial new benefit that weren't listened to
Universal credit flaws leaving families in debt
06 August, 2018
Low-income households being wrongly benefit-capped
Government must act on Universal Credit domestic abuse risk
01 August, 2018
Single payments of Universal Credit to households put people living with domestic abuse at risk of harm
Government to pay thousands to disabled men who had benefits cut
31 July, 2018
DWP was found to have unlawfully discriminated against men who were forced on to universal credit
Our concerns over timetable for moving existing disabled claimants to UC
31 July, 2018
Disability Organisations raise concerns regarding the Government's timetable for moving existing disabled claimants onto Universal Credit
Universal Credit 'Wrecking Lives' As Thousands Take Out Emergency Loans
27 July, 2018
70,000 taking out DWP's 'Budgeting Advance'
Universal Credit will 'inflict pain on Nottingham families'
26 July, 2018
The government says the aim is to simplify the benefits system
NHF calls for housing associations to play larger role in Universal Credit rollout
23 July, 2018
The NHF has called for housing associations to have a larger role in the migration of benefit claimants to Universal Credit
Universal credit IT system 'broken'
23 July, 2018
Service centre staff say glitches having harmful effect on huge number of claimants
Esther McVey admits ongoing problems with universal credit
20 July, 2018
Changes in pipeline as DWP is accused of failing to respond promptly or take expert advice
Government moves to review building regulations fire safety guidance
20 July, 2018
James Brokenshire says he will "go further" with a full-scale review of the guidelines starting in the autumn
Universal Credit: 29 April 2013 to 14 June 2018
17 July, 2018
These experimental statistics cover the number of people on Universal Credit to 14 June 2018
Is Universal Credit ready for an expansion?
13 July, 2018
Universal Credit recently made the headlines for the wrong reasons
Anti-poverty coalition calls for overhaul of universal credit
11 July, 2018
End Hunger UK says payment delays and errors are pushing vulnerable people into destitution, hunger and debt
Calls to 'sanction' Esther McVey over Universal Credit rejected
11 July, 2018
Labour's attempts to "sanction" Esther McVey for her handling of the rollout of Universal Credit have failed
Labour wants McVey 'sanctioned' over Universal Credit
11 July, 2018
Opposition to call for arbitrary, vindictive DWP approach to be turned on secretary of state embarrassed by her own attack on damning NAO report
NFA and ARCH now want Universal Credit slow down
11 July, 2018
New report stresses a belief that it will not be possible for landlords to sustain present levels of support
Cross border raid on Universal Credit
11 July, 2018
Welsh housing and regeneration minister Rebecca Evans gunning for Esther McVey over the impact on vulnerable claimants in Wales
Full migration of UC by March 2023 a viable plan
11 July, 2018
The Director General of Universal Credit gives a cagey response on universal credit rollout to members of the Public Accounts Committee
Universal Credit claimants make up 25% of council rent arrears
11 July, 2018
Universal Credit households now account for 25% of unpaid council rent despite representing just 4% of tenants
DWP Universal Credit newsletter for landlords
10 July, 2018
The Department of Work and Pensions has published the first quarterly newsletter on Universal Credit
Housing Federations unite to fight 'flawed' Universal Credit
10 July, 2018
SFHA, NHF, CHC and NIFHA demand change for tenants in England alone facing more than £21m of debt
Urgent Question - Universal Credit
09 July, 2018
Live coverage of work and pensions secretary Esther McVey answering an urgent question on Universal Credit
Universal Credit: Labour says Esther McVey should resign
09 July, 2018
Esther McVey has faced calls to quit over "inadvertently misleading" the Commons about the official NAO spending watchdog's view of Universal Credit
Length of payment delays for new claims to Universal Credit
09 July, 2018
Statistics on the length of payment delays for new claims to Universal Credit that are paid late
Universal credit row: DWP official has 'full confidence' in NAO
09 July, 2018
Permanent secretary says DWP has good relationship with National Audit Office despite watchdog's critical report
Universal Credit roll-out forces some Ashford claimants to travel to Folkestone to sign on
09 July, 2018
A bungled Universal Credit roll-out is forcing some Ashford claimants to travel more than two hours on public transport to sign on - in Folkestone
Disabled people could slip through net in universal credit move, says charity
06 July, 2018
Mind raises concerns that safeguards for vulnerable claimants will not be in place
Universal Credit: Complaints - and sticking to your guns
06 July, 2018
RLA trainer and Universal Credit expert Bill Irvine shares one of his latest cases
June 2018:Universal Credit landlord engagement newsletter
06 July, 2018
We regularly update our information for landlords, read the up-to-date version of the Universal Credit & Rented Sector Housing Guide and use the latest UC47 form to request payment of rent from tenant's Universal credit
Universal Credit: Labour says Esther McVey should resign
05 July, 2018
Esther McVey has faced calls to quit over "inadvertently misleading" the Commons about the official NAO spending watchdog's view of Universal Credit
Minister apologises over 'inadvertently misleading' parliament
04 July, 2018
Esther McVey apologises for her comments over Universal Credit
'Stock up on tins' - Universal Credit is on its way to Carlisle and Barrow
03 July, 2018
The switch to the controversial government benefit is on the way for thousands of residents
Abuser could 'take control of family finances' under Universal Credit
01 July, 2018
A group of MPs have warned government that Universal Credit could see an increase in abusers controlling the finances of their partners
'Two-child policy' cuts benefits of more than 70,000 families
29 June, 2018
Campaigners warn poverty will rise as low-income families lose financial support
Government policy forced 190 women to prove they were raped in order to get child benefits, figures show
29 June, 2018
Tens of thousands of low income families miss out on child benefits under 'poverty-producing' measure, while mothers forced to disclose rape in order to put food on the table
Understanding your citizens to beat the Universal Credit challenge
28 June, 2018
Understanding your citizens to beat the Universal Credit challenge
New government lettings documents include updated 'How To Rent'
28 June, 2018
Tenant, landlords and buy to let investors are the targets for new online rental guides
Universal Credit: In Work Progression Randomised Control Trial
27 June, 2018
Information about Universal Credit trials and pilots
Government publishes new and updated 'how to' guides
27 June, 2018
The Government has today (Tuesday 26th June) published new and updated information to help landlords and tenants who live and work in private rented housing.
Experiences of Living with Visual Impairment: Matching Income with Needs
26 June, 2018
Six existing benefits have been consolidated into Universal Credit - which the Government says will make the transition between welfare and work, more simple. But a new report from Thomas Pocklington Trust is highlighting changes which it feels will leave future blind and visually impaired claimants worse off
Online Universal Credit bid 'awful'
22 June, 2018
A woman unable to apply for Universal Credit online said she was left having to ask for food parcels.
Universal Credit rollout to roll on
22 June, 2018
The Government has no plans for any U-turn, delay or halt in the rollout of universal credit, placing its faith in a flexible business plan and the 'evangelical' zeal of its jobcentre staff
SSAC consultation on moving existing claimants onto universal credit
22 June, 2018
The Social Security Advisory Committee (SSAC) is consulting on proposals to move existing claimants in receipt of a working age income-related benefit to Universal Credit
Government must 'wake up to universal credit flaws'
22 June, 2018
MPs criticise government for dismissing audit that revealed failings in welfare scheme
Universal Credit and recent welfare changes
22 June, 2018
The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions has delivered an oral statement setting out the benefits of welfare reform (check against delivery)
The cost of housing for low-income renters
21 June, 2018
The 'affordability' of housing is one of the most prominent domestic public policy issues of the day, and for good reason.
Why tenants think their feedback is being ignored
21 June, 2018
The Social Housing Green Paper is set to redress the balance of power between residents and social landlords. Martin Hilditch investigates what tenants would like to happen next
Universal Credit: Online ID demands delaying benefits
21 June, 2018
Demands for passports or driving licences to get new benefits have left some Welsh claimants making "degrading" requests for food to survive, it is being claimed.
Universal Credit - landlords agree reform is needed
20 June, 2018
The RLA continues to call for the roll out of Universal Credit to be paused in the wake of a report by the National Audit Office.
HB Direct newsletters: 2018
20 June, 2018
These HB Direct newsletters for local authority staff provide information that affects Housing Benefit.
Universal credit flaws inflict childcare costs on new workers
20 June, 2018
Parents forced to borrow money while waiting for funds, says Save the Children
Universal Credit: information for stakeholders and partners
19 June, 2018
This collection brings together information for stakeholders and partners relating to Universal Credit.
Why won't ministers come clean about the impact of cuts on disabled people?
19 June, 2018
Being hit by the bedroom tax is bad enough, but losing your sickness benefits too is even harder
Universal credit: fix this cruel, expensive fiasco
18 June, 2018
Ministers promised it would save money and cut fraud. But welfare reform has failed to deliver - and brought misery to many
Universal Credit risks furthering domestic abuse
18 June, 2018
Campaigners call for new payment arrangements where present payment system 'empowers abusers'.
Legislation alone will not eliminate homelessness
18 June, 2018
Local authorities need government funding to help them make a success of the act recently brought in to prevent and reduce homelessness
Disabled men on universal credit discriminated against
15 June, 2018
Both men lost £178 a month on new benefit, leaving them unable to meet basic needs
Universal Credit has not delivered value for money
15 June, 2018
Universal Credit has not delivered value for money and it is uncertain if it ever will
Universal Credit introduced in first Belfast areas
14 June, 2018
Universal Credit will begin in the first areas of Belfast from Wednesday 13 June
My Universal Credit diary
14 June, 2018
I spent today in bed. I need to save my food parcel for the kids as I only get the size designed for a single person.
The DWP just quietly revealed the staggering scale of misery caused by Universal Credit
11 June, 2018
The DWP has quietly revealed the extent to which Universal Credit is throwing claimants into arrears, debt, and poverty
Push back to full roll out of Universal Credit
08 June, 2018
Government needs time to implement changes to the 'reform'
Universal Credit full service claimant survey
08 June, 2018
This report presents findings from a telephone survey of Universal Credit full service claimants
Universal Credit programme full Business Case summary
07 June, 2018
Provides a summary of the Universal Credit full Business Case
Universal Credit: understanding its impact on the labour market
07 June, 2018
This document sets out how the Department for Work and Pensions will examine evidence for how Universal Credit is working in the labour market
Universal credit tips poor into hardship
07 June, 2018
Joseph Rowntree Foundation says cuts, debts and housing costs push poor over the edge
Universal Credit hits single parents
06 June, 2018
One Parent Families Scotland has called for a re-think after seeing a surge in calls about benefits
Grandmother and girl, 4, face homelessness after being denied Universal Credit - because she was born in America
05 June, 2018
Gwendolyn Banks was born in America but moved to England with her parents at the age of five
Single parents suffering from Universal misery
04 June, 2018
The Universal Credit scheme has hit lone carers disproportionately
Universal credit changes will bar 2.6 million children from free school meals
04 June, 2018
Eligibility changes mean 1.1 million children receive free school meals but 2.6 million would be entitled by 2022 if they had been kept the same
Homelessness expected to rise once universal credit arrives in Guildford
01 June, 2018
A borough council report says the welfare reform presents "major risks" ahead of its introduction in Guildford in October
Council welfare assistance schemes failing those in crisis
31 May, 2018
As Universal Credit rolls out, new report says need for coordinated, consistent support is "increasingly urgent"
Bromley universal credit: Concerns raised over looming roll out
31 May, 2018
There are "concerns" about how the roll-out of a new benefits system will hit the most vulnerable in Bromley
Huge rise in number of desperate Dundee households seeking help after benefit reforms
29 May, 2018
The number of hard-pressed Dundonians who have had to seek emergency help from the council has increased more than tenfold since controversial benefit changes were introduced
The disability system is blocking people like Jaki from their benefits
25 May, 2018
Those most in need are being refused benefits because their disability means they can't physically get to their assessment
Universal Credit and students
22 May, 2018
Guidance on claiming Universal Credit if you're a student
Final Findings: Welfare Conditionality project (2013-2018)
22 May, 2018
Report which summarises the final findings of the Welfare Conditionality project (2013-2018).
Council rent arrears soars for Dundee tenants on Universal Credit
21 May, 2018
Social rent arrears run up by Dundee council tenants on Universal Credit have doubled since the start of the year
Calls for stronger rent controls to help tenants struggling under universal credit regime
18 May, 2018
Campaigners say rent controls would help renters struggling under universal credit regime
Universal Credit process too complex for applicants
17 May, 2018
Rejected applications are blamed on an overly complicated process
Universal Credit: Benefit 'flaw' penalises Derry mother
16 May, 2018
A mother from Londonderry has received no benefits for seven weeks due to the roll out of a new Universal Credit process in Northern Ireland
Universal Credit: 29 April 2013 to 12 April 2018
15 May, 2018
These experimental statistics cover numbers of claims made, starts and people on Universal Credit to 12 April 2018
Scottish Government could be hit with £1m charge to improve welfare payments
14 May, 2018
The Scottish Government could be hit with a £1 million bill for making it easier for claimants to budget with Universal Credit welfare payments
Complex rules for universal credit see one in five claims fail
14 May, 2018
Thousands feared to be out of pocket after applications turned down for 'non-compliance with the process'
Secure Tenancies Bill passes third reading amid concerns over Universal Credit
11 May, 2018
Opposition amendments aiming to ease financial pressure on women fleeing violent partners are voted down
Universal credit rules risk 'crushing' self-employed and startups
11 May, 2018
Committee of MPs says benefit 'designed with little regard' for sixth of UK workforce
MP warns domestic abuse victims face huge rent arrears on Universal Credit
09 May, 2018
Victims of domestic violence who claim Universal Credit can find themselves in thousands of pounds of rent arrears if their abuser leaves their home and the payment is split
TV poll shows frontline DWP staff want Universal Credit roll-out paused
09 May, 2018
"Universal Credit, it's just taken my life, ripped it apart and flushed it down the toilet"
Universal Credit and prison leavers
04 May, 2018
Information for prison leavers, work coaches and probation officers about Universal Credit
Benefit cap leading to "working role-models in families": Esther McVey
03 May, 2018
New figures released today show that 48,000 households have moved into work after being subject to the benefit cap
Benefit cap: number of households capped to February 2018
03 May, 2018
Statistics on households that have had their benefits capped between 15 April 2013 and February 2018
Rising rent arrears a major risk to building new affordable homes
01 May, 2018
Fife families are struggling to pay their rent due to universal credit, posing a threat to construction of affordable housing in the region
This is the impact of universal credit
23 April, 2018
The number of people on universal credit is set to double this year
Split universal credit payments between partners to curb abuse
19 April, 2018
Experts tell MPs single household payments make it easier for domestic abusers to seize and regulate family income
Universal Credit: 29 April 2013 to 8 March 2018
17 April, 2018
Official experimental statistics including the number of people on Universal Credit, starts and claims
Universal Support
17 April, 2018
Universal Credit claimants can get help to make a claim and manage their payments of Universal Credit. This help is called Universal Support
McVey faces further SFHA calls for Universal Credit pause
16 April, 2018
Delaying system changes to allow bedroom tax to be abolished at source until at least May 2020 will be "fraught with difficulty"
Universal credit 'flaws' mean thousands will be worse off
12 April, 2018
Analysis shows that self-employed workers could receive less over a year than employees in "traditional" jobs who earn the same amount
Extra rent support for new Universal Credit claimants
11 April, 2018
Esther McVey said the additional support was being made available to allow people to "adjust" from fortnightly to monthly payments
Rent boost for millions of claimants moving onto Universal Credit
11 April, 2018
People in receipt of Housing Benefit will receive an extra 2 weeks' support with their rent when they move onto Universal Credit from 11 April 2018
Ministers told to expect backlash as millions lose out from universal credit
09 April, 2018
Senior government adviser warns of effect of cuts to welfare budget
Government U-turns on 18-21s housing benefit cut
03 April, 2018
The government has U-turned on a controversial policy to scrap housing benefit for 18 to 21-year-olds under Universal Credit
New research aims to improve Universal Credit claims for thousands of homeless people
29 March, 2018
New research could challenge current government thinking that housing costs for supported housing cannot remain within the welfare system
Support for 18 to 21 year olds claiming Universal Credit
29 March, 2018
Find out about the help available for Universal Credit claimants aged 18 to 21 to find employment, work-related training or an apprenticeship
DWP accused of 'clumsy' attempt to defend Universal Credit using IFS research
26 March, 2018
MPs criticise 'airy and irrelevant' responses from the department after committee raises questions over the projected employment boost from benefit reform
Bishop of Durham 'deeply concerned' over universal credit plan
26 March, 2018
The Bishop of Durham has criticised the government over its implementation of universal credit and called for it to 'revisit' aspects of the payment.
Pressure on social landlords set to rise as Universal Credit rolls out
23 March, 2018
Report reveals rent being collected directly from tenants by housing officers will increase by 63.1% on average
Local Authority Insight Survey Wave 33
22 March, 2018
This research presents findings on preparations for Universal Credit managed migration and the effects of reducing the Housing Benefit backdating period.
Universal Credit transition to full service
22 March, 2018
When local authorities and jobcentre areas will transition to the Universal Credit full service.
Who will foot the bill to prevent people becoming homeless?
22 March, 2018
New law will compel councils to prevent evictions and rough sleeping. But this comes at a price local authorities will struggle to afford
Spending on new homes plummets while housing benefit soars
22 March, 2018
CIH chief executive Terrie Alafat CBE says new statistics show social housing has reached a critical point
Universal Credit: a chance to boost living standards for those on low incomes
22 March, 2018
One way to right the wrong of in-work poverty is by using Universal Credit (UC) to loosen the grip of poverty on struggling families
Universal Credit claimants in Plymouth are struggling to pay rent
20 March, 2018
Official for Plymouth Community Homes admits it's a 'serious position'
Holyrood committee to question work and pensions secretary over Universal Credit and welfare
20 March, 2018
Esther McVey MP is to appear before the Scottish Parliament's social security committee to discuss the ongoing problems with the roll out of Universal Credit and the devolution of welfare powers to Scotland
Food bank use 'could rise after universal credit roll-out'
20 March, 2018
The full roll out of universal credit could see a significant rise in people needing emergency food supplies in Wales
Universal Credit - update on notifying rent changes
16 March, 2018
Social Rented Sector - Reporting April 2018 rent changes: advice for landlords
Government wants to 'work with the sector' on Universal Credit
15 March, 2018
Neil Couling, Universal Credit Programme lead, tells NHF Finance they want to "co-produce" the welfare reform
How Universal Credit can help your business
14 March, 2018
How Universal Credit can help your business
Reverse universal credit cuts
13 March, 2018
Thinktank says 340,000 people could be taken out of poverty if Philip Hammond takes action
Universal Credit: Universal Support 2018/19 guidance
12 March, 2018
Guidance for Local Authorities and partners providing Universal Support (Assisted Digital and/or Personal Budgeting Support)
Universal credit: Government to publish internal reviews of controversial benefit in new U-turn
09 March, 2018
Assessments failed to produce evidence that more people would be helped into work
DWP to publish key documents on Universal Credit
09 March, 2018
The government will finally publish internal assessment reviews of the controversial Universal Credit programme under Freedom of Information laws, after years of refusing to do so
Universal Credit project warned over Gov.uk Verify performance in 2015
09 March, 2018
Government project management experts warned as long ago as 2015 that a problem with GDS's Verify online identity system could undermine the Universal Credit business plan
Benefits system overhaul as Universal Credit is introduced
07 March, 2018
The way that benefits are paid in the UK is currently undergoing a complete overhaul
Government response: SSAC report on in-work progression and Universal Credit
06 March, 2018
The government response to the report 'In-work progression and Universal Credit' which examined how to support working claimants into more or better paid work
Universal Credit: detailed information for claimants
05 March, 2018
More detailed information for people on Universal Credit
Universal Credit starts in Cardiff today - this is what it means for you
01 March, 2018
The aim of Universal Credit is to simplify the benefits system
Universal Credit leaves thousands of Londoners in rent arrears
01 March, 2018
More than 70% of council tenants in London on Universal Credit are in rent arrears
Landlords who say 'no DSS' breaking equality laws
26 February, 2018
The thousands of lettings agents and landlords around the country who reject housing benefit claimants could be flouting equality laws, due a recent legal case.
Councils 'help transform' the future for Private Rented Sector
26 February, 2018
New report shows how councils can foster investment by corporate landlords in new private rental housing.
As a campaigner, I believe the Tories can fix homelessness
23 February, 2018
The 2008 financial crash that triggered austerity happened on Labour's watch. We've been dealing with the fallout ever since
The seven reasons why landlords won't let to tenants on benefits
22 February, 2018
Private sector landlords are accused of unfairly turning away households claiming housing benefit. So why do they refuse
Universal Credit: 29 April 2013 to 11 January 2018
21 February, 2018
These experimental statistics cover numbers of claims made, starts and people on Universal Credit to 11 January 2018
Benefit sanctions statistics to October 2017
21 February, 2018
Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support, Jobseeker's Allowance and Universal Credit sanctions: data to October 2017
Tougher benefit cap has left thousands of poorer families out of pocket
19 February, 2018
Punitive move could grow homelessness problem
£10,000 proposed for everyone under 55
16 February, 2018
The government should give £10,000 to every citizen under 55
New Universal Credit rules to bring in significant changes
15 February, 2018
The DWP has published new regulations following the Universal Credit changes announced in the Autumn Budget last year
First Universal Credit payment paid quicker
14 February, 2018
Universal Credit will be paid sooner to new claimants from 14 February 2018
Universal credit all-party report raises fears over workability of system
08 February, 2018
Findings flag up 'considerable uncertainty about its costs and benefits' seven years on
Housing associations need 'better engagement' over future for Universal Credit
08 February, 2018
Latest Work and Pensions Committee assessment stresses the case for landlord councils and housing associations as key delivery partners for UC
Government's Universal Credit payments will be seamless
06 February, 2018
The roll-out of the Government's flagship welfare policy Universal Credit will now happen "seamlessly" after months of difficulties, a minister claimed today
Universal Credit Update January 2018
05 February, 2018
This update includes information received from DWP at the CHC and DWP Roundtable meeting, the Social Rented Sector Strategic Landlord DWP meeting, and the DWP Wales Stakeholder Board meeting
Government rolls-out Universal Credit changes to address arrears spike
05 February, 2018
Changes to Universal Credit will come into force this month, including changes to the controversial 42 day waiting period for claimants to receive their first payment
Universal credit system faces landmark legal challenge
05 February, 2018
Lawyers for terminally ill man who say new system costs him almost £200 a month win right to judicial review
Thousands of Universal Credit claimants unable to use Gov.uk Verify to apply for benefits
02 February, 2018
Government research shows that barely one-third of benefits claimants can successfully apply for new Universal Credit digital service using flagship online identity system
Universal Credit Scottish Choices eligibility extended
01 February, 2018
More flexibility to help people manage their money
Life on Universal Credit: Three things the Government needs to change to make the system better in 2019
31 January, 2018
This is what the Government needs to do to restore the reputation of its flagship welfare reform programme
LIN member report January 2018 - Universal Credit
30 January, 2018
LIN member report by Neil Merrick
The baffling change to Universal Credit for people in work that has got experts worried
30 January, 2018
The change to Universal Credit has unpredictable effects - here's what you should do about it
Why Universal Credit is prime example of UK Government getting it wrong
29 January, 2018
Universal Credit demonstrates exactly why we want to do things differently in Scotland
Universal Credit presents 'significant risk' to public spending
26 January, 2018
Report from the Office of Budget Responsibility shows UC offering only marginal taxpayer savings despite the extent of related cuts
Universal credit: what is it and what exactly is wrong with it?
26 January, 2018
Is the unpopular benefits scheme championed by Iain Duncan Smith too big to fail?
Universal credit to save taxpayers only 2% in spite of benefit cuts
26 January, 2018
Welfare scheme a 'significant risk' to public spending, warns Office for Budget Responsibility
Universal Credit: 29 April 2013 to 14 December 2017
24 January, 2018
These experimental statistics cover numbers of claims made, starts and people on Universal Credit to 14 December 2017
AM's concern over Universal Credit impact in Torfaen
22 January, 2018
The number of people on Universal Credit in Torfaen being pushed into rent arrears is "deeply worrying"
People on controversial Universal Credit scheme are 'worse off than before'
22 January, 2018
People claiming Universal Credit are worse off than before, it has been said
Universal Credit: Four people reveal their experiences as it's rolled out across Birmingham
22 January, 2018
Universal Credit is being rolled out across Birmingham
Council housing rent soars to £2m in Highlands
19 January, 2018
The roll-out of Universal Credit is being blamed for Highland Council rent arrears soaring by a third, topping almost £2million
Ministers should consider implementing universal basic income
19 January, 2018
Ministers should consider implementing the radical policy of a universal basic income
18 to 21-year-old Universal Credit policy will not deliver expected savings
15 January, 2018
A controversial government policy to deny housing benefit for 18 to 21-year-olds has only affected 4% of claimants
Universal Credit roll out in Northern Ireland by postcode
15 January, 2018
This page lists the postcodes in Northern Ireland where Universal Credit is being introduced and the dates
One million calls to Universal Credit helpline 'abandoned' in one year
11 January, 2018
More than one million calls to the Universal Credit helpline have been abandoned without claimants getting an answer within a 12-month period
'Unhelpful scaremongering' over Universal Credit is putting private landlords off
10 January, 2018
A junior government minister has criticised opposition MPs for "unhelpful scaremongering" over the issue of UC, which they say is causing landlords to flee the market
The devastating impact Universal Credit is already having in Hull
10 January, 2018
Council report says debts are already 'unsustainable'
Universal Credit: MPs to debate problems caused in private rented sector
09 January, 2018
Landlords are now able to apply directly for alternative payment arrangements for tenants on Universal Credit
Research reveals 'true impact' of Universal Credit on the rental market
09 January, 2018
Some 73% of landlords still lack confidence in renting to UC tenants citing fears over arrears
Universal Credit goes back to its future
09 January, 2018
Extensive campaigning by the RLA sees landlords able to claim direct payments again - as they could under Housing Benefit
Dominic Raab: The doubt of the benefit
09 January, 2018
Track record of new housing minister signals limited horizons
Housing costs in Universal Credit
03 January, 2018
This Commons Library briefing paper explains the key differences between assistance with housing costs under the Housing Benefit regime and under Universal Credit
Universal Credit: full service and live service
01 January, 2018
This guidance explains the Universal Credit full service and live service
Councils set aside millions of pounds to support struggling UC claimants
01 January, 2018
Figures released over Christmas further expose the hardship and distress caused by welfare 'reform'
The forgotten unemployed: 300,000 jobless Britons not claiming benefits
01 January, 2018
Study finds many people are not claiming support they are entitled to and warns some are put off by the benefits system
Set Brexit aside - here are the political issues you mustn't lose sight of in 2018
01 January, 2018
With unprecedented government cuts, hard times lie ahead for millions affected by poverty, homelessness, disability, universal credit and the social care crisis
'I just want a job - it's all I want': Foodbank users speak of their desperation
29 December, 2017
People explain why they must rely on handouts to survive
Tory MP condemns universal basic income 'on moral grounds'
29 December, 2017
Stumping up for workers made redundant by robots is 'dangerous nonsense', says former minister Nick Boles in new book
Councils forced to fund emergency help for universal credit claimants
29 December, 2017
Labour says its findings offer more evidence that the government should pause rollout of new benefit system
Universal Credit rollout sees food bank use increase across Yorkshire
28 December, 2017
Parts of Yorkshire which have introduced Universal Credit ahead of its national rollout are reporting increased food bank use from desperate clients
Scotland united in curiosity as councils trial universal basic income
27 December, 2017
Four local authorities tasked with turning utopian fantasy into reality with backing of first minister and multi-party support
Landlords 'unwilling' to rent to universal credit recipients
27 December, 2017
Landlords' association reports huge rise in non-payment of rent in areas where universal credit has been introduced
Universal credit 'will cause evictions'
22 December, 2017
Universal credit will cause a rise in evictions from privately rented homes
Universal credit: Minister apologises for payment delays
21 December, 2017
Benefit claimants who have suffered problems because of a welfare overhaul have been given an apology by a UK government minister
Universal credit: The first six months in Torfaen
21 December, 2017
The plan was that universal credit would help smooth the journey from being out of work to employment
NAO wants evidence for latest examination of Universal Credit
21 December, 2017
Two previous reports found poor performance on delivery of an "over ambitious" programme
December 2017: Touchbase edition 123
20 December, 2017
This month the DWP announced changes to Universal Credit in the Autumn Budget, details of which can be found in this edition
One million children living in poverty will miss out on free school meals under universal credit plans
19 December, 2017
The Children's Society says plans to means test free school meals under universal credit will create a 'cliff-edge' where many families are better off taking a pay cut
Government accused of 'absence of empathy' over Universal Credit
19 December, 2017
In questions in the Commons, DWP ministers have been under pressure over the welfare policy in the run-up to Christmas
More than 1m 'forgotten homes' in UK do not get fast enough broadband
18 December, 2017
More than 1m "forgotten homes" across the UK are unable to get sufficiently fast broadband to meet a typical family's needs
Impact of Universal Credit - The Frontline Perspective
13 December, 2017
This report is the culmination of a year-long study and draws on the results of four surveys into the impacts of Universal Credit on housing organisations and their tenants
Emergency food and fuel vouchers handed out as the latest Universal Credit rollout takes place
13 December, 2017
Swansea is the latest place in Wales where Universal Credit is being rolled out
Universal credit 'could affect building of new homes'
13 December, 2017
Rent arrears caused by delays in tenants receiving universal credit could hamper housing associations' building plans
Universal Credit statistics: number of claims made 13 Jan to 14 Sept 2017
13 December, 2017
This statistical notice is about a revision to the number of claims made to Universal Credit between 13 January and 14 September 2017
Universal Credit: 29 April 2013 to 9 November 2017
13 December, 2017
These experimental statistics cover numbers of claims made, starts and people on Universal Credit to 9 November 2017
Personal Independence Payment: April 2013 to October 2017
13 December, 2017
Quarterly statistics including numbers of claims in payment, new claim registrations, decisions and awards made
Universal Credit local authority bulletins 2017
08 December, 2017
Information for all local authority staff about Universal Credit
Grudging Gauke releases Universal Credit papers
07 December, 2017
Labour uses Brexit tactics to secure UC implementation reports that Work and Pensions Secretary warns must be kept confidential
'Large' families, poverty & welfare reform
06 December, 2017
Collecting insights from a one-day conference in Bradford on 13th November 2017
Government to provide Universal Credit reports to committee
06 December, 2017
The government will make Universal Credit reports that were kept confidential for years available to the Work and Pensions Committee in a concession to Labour
Labour bid to force publication of Universal Credit reviews
05 December, 2017
Jeremy Corbyn's party is to ask the Queen to require ministers to release the documents
Labour brings 'Brexit tactics' to Universal Credit fight
05 December, 2017
Party plans "humble address" to force Government into releasing project assessment reviews conducted into the welfare reform
UC changes - 'good start, but more needed'
05 December, 2017
Changes to Universal Credit have made landlords more willing to rent homes to claimants, but the government needs to do more to address their concerns
Day of rage against Universal Credit
01 December, 2017
Anti-poverty campaigners say Christmas will be cancelled for thousands of families in Scotland as a result of Universal Credit
Universal Credit hitting vulnerable people hard in Solihull
01 December, 2017
The roll-out of the new Universal Credit welfare benefit is hitting people hard in Solihull
Councils in Universal Credit areas dig deeper into DHP funds
01 December, 2017
Councils are having to dig deeper into their Discretionary Housing Payment funds to help residents affected by welfare reforms and homelessness
It's now free to call universal credit lines
30 November, 2017
All calls to universal credit helplines are now free, the government has confirmed
Universal credit helpline closure could hit poorest over Xmas
30 November, 2017
Labour's Frank Field says 'chaos' could leave some without money for food, lighting and heating
SNP call on Tory Government to fix problems of "utterly callous" Universal Credit
27 November, 2017
Theresa May will be urged today to tackle the "utterly callous" roll-out of Universal Credit
BBC is forced to apologise for report saying 100,000 Universal Credit claimants will lose their benefits over Christmas
27 November, 2017
The BBC claimed 'up to' 100,000 claimants would go without over Christmas
Universal credit in new crisis as some claimants are denied mortgages
27 November, 2017
A standoff between banks and the government means that loan applicants could be rejected if they receive the new payment
More detail on £1.5 billion package of support for Universal Credit
24 November, 2017
More details of the £1.5 billion package of support for Universal Credit were set out today by David Gauke, the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions
Empty homes spike in London commuter belt
24 November, 2017
London's commuter belt has seen a spike in the number of homes left long-term empty despite a downward trend across the UK since 2025.
Autumn Budget 2017 Universal Credit changes: what next for welfare?
24 November, 2017
What Philip Hammond's Universal Credit changes mean, and more
Labour criticises delays to universal credit changes
24 November, 2017
Measures announced in budget will not be introduced until as late as April, leaving some families facing a tough Christmas
Autumn Budget 2017 25 things you need to know
23 November, 2017
The Chancellor has presented his Budget to Parliament - here's a summary of what was announced.
Social housing sales up for councils and associations
23 November, 2017
Latest stats show 23,186 sales of social housing homes over 2016-17 - 13,652 by local authorities and 9,534 by housing associations.
'Small print' reveals reality behind UC budget offer
23 November, 2017
Changes announced by chancellor won't take effect until the New Year - with the housing benefit extension due in April.
What the 2017 autumn budget means for you
23 November, 2017
We've looked at the figures to see how Philip Hammond's autumn budget will affect your finances - whether you're single, married, with or without children or retired.
Empty homes council tax rise unlikely to deter rich owners, say critics
23 November, 2017
Hammond's 100% extra tax on vacant property dismissed as 'joke' unlikely to hit wealthy buyers or spur re-use of housing
Universal credit wait reduced to five weeks
23 November, 2017
Tories welcome changes to hardship loans and housing benefit but Labour calls for welfare rollout to be paused and fixed
Housing homeless in hotels tops £100,000 in Gloucestershire
23 November, 2017
More than £100,000 has been spent by local authorities in Gloucestershire since January 2016 putting up homeless people in hotels.
Budget commitment good but crucial we build the right homes in the right places
23 November, 2017
In response to the budget, CIH's deputy chief executive Gavin Smart said the government's renewed commitment to solve the housing crisis is positive but it's crucial the homes built are homes that people can afford.
Government announces 'short term solution for temporary accommodation rent arrears
23 November, 2017
The government has announced a 'short-term measure' to tackle growing rent arrears bills for temporary accommodation providers.
Britain faces longest decline in living standards in 60 years
23 November, 2017
Resolution Foundation warns average earnings will not return to 2007 levels until 2025.
Universal Credit 'a nightmare' say Flintshire couple
22 November, 2017
A Flintshire couple forced to go to a food bank after benefit changes say the new system is "worse than a nightmare"
Reducing UC wait to 31 days 'would not be enough'
22 November, 2017
Social landlords have warned that a cut in the UC waiting time from six weeks to 31 days would not go far enough to help tenants reduce their arrears
What England needs is more affordable houses, not universal credit
22 November, 2017
The botched rollout of universal credit has led to £1.3m in council rental arrears in Newcastle, the city where I, Daniel Blake was set. Ministers are making the housing crisis worse
Budget 2017: What do Universal Credit reforms mean?
22 November, 2017
People claiming the benefit universal credit will have to wait five weeks, rather than six, to receive their first payment from February 2018
Budget 2017: £1.5bn being spent on 'more generous' Universal Credit
22 November, 2017
New measures outlined in budget speech as a response to cross-party concerns
The Universal Credit flaw forcing patients to risk a £50 prescription fine
22 November, 2017
The NHS has not caught up with the sprawling nightmare that is Universal Credit
Labour attacks universal credit as 'not fit for purpose'
21 November, 2017
Opposition calls for major changes, including cuts to the six-week period that claimants have to wait for payments
'It's just mistake after mistake' - stories from the universal credit catastrophe
21 November, 2017
It was introduced to simplify benefits and encourage people to work
Council makes 'urgent' call for extra government cash as UC arrears rise
20 November, 2017
A south London borough is has called on the government to provide "urgent" extra funding, to prevent families on Universal Credit being made homeless
Landlady left with £9,500 rent arrears by tenant on universal credit
20 November, 2017
Property owner says she will not rent to recipients again - as fears rise more will follow suit
Budget 2017 Predictions And What To Expect On Housing, Universal Credit And More
20 November, 2017
Philip Hammond is under pressure to splash the cash
On Universal Credit, the government is ignoring the elephant in the room
20 November, 2017
As Philip Hammond prepares for this week's Budget, it looks increasingly likely that he will concede on making some changes to Universal Credit
Universal credit shouldn't be scrapped - it is worth salvaging
17 November, 2017
Merging six benefits into one should eventually make the system simpler and more efficient
Ditch tax cuts to fund universal credit
17 November, 2017
Centre for Social Justice urges chancellor to row back on manifesto pledge to reduce income tax and invest in benefits instead
New universal credit claimants 'will get no money before Christmas'
17 November, 2017
Peabody Trust says 42-day wait means 60,000 households, with over 40,000 children, will receive no income until after festive season
Universal Credit: Architect of welfare shake-up urges changes
16 November, 2017
The man who invented Universal Credit has added his voice to growing calls for the benefit to be paid quicker
Six-week wait for universal credit set to be reduced
16 November, 2017
Government preparing to trim wait for new benefit after Tory backbenchers raised concerns about impact on constituents
Landlord defends sending eviction letters ahead of universal credit rollout
16 November, 2017
Lincolnshire property firm sends formal notice of possession to all tenants in case universal credit leads to rent arrears
Government refuses to investigate whether people claiming Universal Credit are forced to use food banks
16 November, 2017
Stance 'only serves to demonstrate the contempt they have for the most vulnerable in our society'
PMQs: Universal credit families risk Christmas eviction
16 November, 2017
Hundreds of families have been issued with eviction notices by a landlord concerned about the impact of universal credit
Lettings agency issues pre-emptive eviction notices ahead of UC roll-out
15 November, 2017
Jeremy Corbyn cites the notices at PMQs amid reports of a coming government climb down on the UC waiting time
Benefit sanctions statistics 2017
15 November, 2017
Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support, Jobseeker's Allowance and Universal Credit sanctions: data to June 2017
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 12 Oct 2017
15 November, 2017
These experimental statistics cover numbers of starts made and people on Universal Credit to 12 October 2017
Benefit destinations of claimants receiving a benefit sanction: methodology
15 November, 2017
An explanation of the methodology used in the benefit destinations of claimants who have been sanctioned statistics
Landlord threatens mass evictions ahead of universal credit rollout
15 November, 2017
Lincolnshire property firm sends formal notice of possession to all tenants in case universal credit leads to rent arrears
UK Government must take responsibility for consequences of UC implementation
14 November, 2017
Latest call for action follows the Scottish government urging a stop on the roll-out to fix "fundamental flaws"
Call to fix 'fundamental flaws' in Universal Credit
13 November, 2017
The Scottish government is calling on the chancellor to stop the rollout of Universal Credit to enable "fundamental flaws" to be fixed
The Chancellor should use Universal Credit, not the tax system, to help young people in the Budget
10 November, 2017
Unfreezing working age benefits next year and rebooting Universal Credit would provide a much needed living standards boost to young families as the majority of gains would go to millennials
Universal credit: the homeless charity that could lose a third of its income
10 November, 2017
Residents at Emmaus Greenwich face a stark choice under changes to the benefits system: lose money or lose the chance to work for the charity that supports them
Govt dismisses call to allow Universal Credit to be paid twice monthly in England and Wales
08 November, 2017
The government has rejected a recommendation from the Lords Select Committee on Financial Exclusion to allow flexibility so that Universal Credit payments might be made twice monthly
Plea for 'full scale rescue' of Universal Credit in upcoming budget
07 November, 2017
New study shows the sinking flagship welfare reform represents a "colossal failure" of public policy if it rolls out little more than desperation and destitution
Food banks warn of struggle to cope this Christmas due to universal credit
07 November, 2017
Trussell Trust says six-week wait for first payment of benefit will lead to soaring demand for help from families this winter
Families thousands of pounds worse off after years of cuts
06 November, 2017
Seven years of cuts to tax credits and universal credit have hugely eroded their role in supposedly rewarding people for working, leaving many families thousands of pounds a year worse off
Foodbank fears soaring demand as Universal Credit rolled out in Dundee
02 November, 2017
Dundee Foodbank organisers say they expects pleas for help to soar if the city is hit by a poverty crisis as the new Universal Credit benefit is rolled out
DWP launches legal challenge to release of Universal Credit reports
02 November, 2017
Department says the documents fall under a Freedom of Information exemption allowing staff "free and frank" discussions in developing policy
Government needs to iron out kinks in Universal Credit roll-out
01 November, 2017
The government should not overlook the lessons that can be learnt from the roll-out of full-service Universal Credit
Reverse cuts or backing for universal credit may collapse
31 October, 2017
Urgent £3bn cash injection needed to bolster confidence in failing system after welfare cuts
Councils put aside millions for universal credit debt
31 October, 2017
Scottish councils have put aside £8 million to mitigate against universal credit debt
Universal Remedy - Ensuring Universal Credit is fit for purpose
31 October, 2017
Making Universal Credit fit for 21st Century Britain
Association has raised suicide alerts for some UC tenants
30 October, 2017
A housing association has been so concerned about some of its tenants on Universal Credit that it has raised suicide alerts with local GPs
Conservatives 'planning Budget U-turn' over rollout of Universal Credit regime
30 October, 2017
It was reported that Chancellor Philip Hammond is set to make an announcement at the autumn Budget - scheduled for 22 November
DWP quietly drops Universal Credit child poverty forecast
27 October, 2017
The DWP has quietly dropped its estimates of how many children will be lifted out of poverty because of Universal Credit
Universal credit left Port Talbot woman 'penniless'
27 October, 2017
A woman from Port Talbot said she has been left penniless since signing up to universal credit
AMs call for pause to universal credit roll-out
26 October, 2017
AMs have backed calls for a pause to the roll out of universal credit in a vote
Universal credit: MPs urge government to cut waiting time
26 October, 2017
The six-week waiting time for universal credit should be cut and be a maximum of one month
Families in a Welsh city are £73,000 in debt after just two months of the universal credit pilot
25 October, 2017
It amounts to around £830 per family
Universal Credit arrears could limit new build
25 October, 2017
Universal Credit arrears could hamper housing associations' ability to build, a provider has warned ahead of an emergency debate in the House of Commons
Universal credit rollout not expected to increase food bank use
25 October, 2017
Junior minister says government listening to concerns after Labour passed advisory motion calling for rollout to be paused
Universal credit behind rising rent arrears and food bank use, 'guinea pig' councils say
24 October, 2017
Research by Southwark and Croydon councils reveals devastating effect of new benefits system
Labour and rebel Tories secure debate on universal credit rollout
24 October, 2017
Three-hour parliamentary session to take place as pressure grows to reduce six-week delay before benefits payments begin
Universal Credit advances
24 October, 2017
If you don't have enough to live on while you wait for your first payment you may be able to get an advance of your first Universal Credit payment
Keeping more of what you earn
23 October, 2017
JRF is calling for people to be able to keep more of what they earn under Universal Credit in order to reduce in-work poverty, delivered by increasing the work allowance
Archbishop calls for cut to universal credit delays
23 October, 2017
The six-week waiting time for universal credit must be cut as the idea that people have a nest egg to fall back on is "grotesquely ignorant"
Theresa May plots climbdown over Universal Credit amid fears it could become her 'poll tax'
23 October, 2017
Theresa May is on the brink of a major climbdown over Universal Credit payments, having been warned it could become her "poll tax"
Safe as houses: the impact of universal credit on tenants and their rent behaviour in the London boroughs of Southwark and Croydon, and Peabody
23 October, 2017
The London boroughs of Southwark and Croydon were among the first areas in the country to see the early rollout of full service universal credit
Emergency debate on UC waiting times
23 October, 2017
There will be an emergency debate today on the six-week waiting time for Universal Credit claimants
Tories warned UC defeat can't be 'shrugged off'
20 October, 2017
Government defiant after humiliating commons crushing over welfare reform
Wales continues fight against Universal Credit
20 October, 2017
The Welsh housing sector has continued to pile pressure on Westminster over the controversial policy
Universal credit isn't about saving money - it's about disciplining unemployed people
20 October, 2017
The scheme has cost a fortune and done nothing but cause suffering. So why does it exist at all?
Associations having to give food parcels to tenants on Universal Credit
20 October, 2017
Housing associations are having to hand out food parcels and vouchers to tenants on Universal Credit as well as helping with utility bills
Seven in ten letting agents say their landlords will not accept Universal Credit tenants
19 October, 2017
Private landlords across the country are refusing to let their properties to Universal Credit claimants
Labour inflicts symbolic defeat over universal credit rollout
19 October, 2017
Tories under fire for abstaining from vote hours after work and pensions secretary David Gauke ends helpline charges
Gauke: 'unacceptable' for social landlords to evict Universal Credit tenants
19 October, 2017
It is "simply unacceptable" for social landlords to evict tenants due to arrears built up when switching to Universal Credit
Two in ten landlords willing to house Universal Credit tenants
19 October, 2017
Just two in 10 landlords say they are willing to let to tenants in receipt of housing benefit or universal credit
Universal credit: My five-year-old searched bins for food
19 October, 2017
Anna says she had to visit a food bank after the changes to her benefits left her without any money
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 14 Sep 2017
19 October, 2017
These experimental statistics cover numbers of claims made, starts and people on Universal Credit to 14 September 2017
'Universal Credit isn't a fair system'
18 October, 2017
Gillian Garriock has worked in several jobs throughout her adult life to provide for her children
Theresa May to scrap universal credit helpline charges
18 October, 2017
People will be able to call the government's universal credit helpline without being charged, within weeks
PM will not reduce six-week wait for universal credit despite MPs' warnings
18 October, 2017
Government says it believes advance payments solve problems with delays as Labour urges Tories to support motion to pause rollout of benefit
'We went days without eating properly': how universal credit brought misery to Inverness
18 October, 2017
People who were never in debt before have been catapulted into crisis in trial of benefit whose rollout continues despite concerns
Government under fire after abstaining on Universal Credit vote
18 October, 2017
Government have dodged a humiliating defeat, by not turning up to the vote on pausing the roll-out of Universal Credit
Universal credit: DWP withholding bad news
17 October, 2017
Frank Field, work and pensions committee chair, believes department has not revealed scale of problems with welfare changes
Transition Rollout Schedule - October 2017 to September 2018
16 October, 2017
In May 2016 the full Universal Credit service for all claimant types began to rollout nationally (beyond London) and in July 2016 it was announced that this rollout will complete by September 2018
Universal credit: Plaid Cymru offers to pay for claimants' calls
16 October, 2017
People claiming universal credit have been offered free use of Plaid Cymru phones to avoid helpline charges
Halton Housing calls for a slow down to Universal Credit roll out
16 October, 2017
July 2016 saw the introduction of Universal Credit in Halton
Chancellor urged to lower tax rate on universal credit
16 October, 2017
Conservative MP calls on Philip Hammond to cut rate to allow people receiving in-work benefits to work more hours without facing such heavy tax
Pressure grows to make universal credit helpline free of charge
13 October, 2017
Campaigners are concerned that complexity of new benefit and poor staff training are contributing to long and repeated calls
Corbyn challenged over UC eviction rates claim
13 October, 2017
The housing association cited for UC evictions at PMQs throws its figures back at the commons
Universal Credit: Landlord request for a managed payment or rent arrears deduction
13 October, 2017
If a tenant is having difficulty paying their rent, fill in the UC47 form to request payment of rent from a tenant's Universal Credit
Is Universal Credit leading to rent arrears?
12 October, 2017
Half of all council tenants on Universal Credit are at least a month in arrears in their rent
Welfare reform a major challenge for Welsh housing
12 October, 2017
The government's green paper on social housing needs to provide answers for Wales over the LHA cap and Universal Credit
Corbyn tells May to 'wake up' on universal credit complaints
12 October, 2017
Theresa May has defended the expansion of the government's flagship welfare reform as Jeremy Corbyn said it was increasing poverty and homelessness
Discretionary housing payments: the under-spenders
11 October, 2017
Every year the Government offers councils millions of pounds to help households struggling to pay their rent - so why does so much of it remain unspent?
The introduction of the LHA cap to the social rented sector: impact on young people in Scotland
11 October, 2017
This research was commissioned by CIH Scotland in partnership with the Scottish Government and was conducted by the Indigo House Group
'I can't even charge my wheelchair': the impact of universal credit delays
10 October, 2017
UC was meant to simplify benefits, but readers have told us of their confusion and anguish in dealing with the system
Universal Credit's impact on the two HRAs
10 October, 2017
The Universal Credit roll-out raises questions for councils around meeting the requirements of the Homelessness Reduction Act and managing their Housing Revenue Accounts
'Who is going to feed my kids?' - stress, hunger and dire warnings amid 'chaotic' Universal Credit roll-out
10 October, 2017
As the Universal Credit roll-out continues across Greater Manchester, ministers and charities are warning it could be a catastrophe for the poorest in society
Half a million more people in poverty if Government maintains benefits freeze
10 October, 2017
Real terms cuts to working-age benefits and tax credits - imposed before Prime Minister Theresa May took office - are set to drive almost half a million more people into poverty in 2020
Councils fear surge in evictions as universal credit rollout accelerates
09 October, 2017
Housing federation says new system poses challenge to landlords, and Guardian investigation reveals claimants' frustration
More than 25 Tory MPs prepared to rebel over Universal Credit roll-out
09 October, 2017
More than 25 Tory MPs are now prepared to rebel over the Government's flagship welfare reforms
Scotland ready to pay housing element of Universal Credit direct to landlords
09 October, 2017
Now UK government is being urged to follow the Scottish government lead
'In a year, not one payment correct': a council tenant on the misery of universal credit
06 October, 2017
In a revealing video, visually-impaired council tenant Jo King explains the impact of delays and mistakes since she's been on universal credit
Universal Credit choices for Scottish claimants begin
05 October, 2017
Recipients of Universal Credit in Scotland will be offered two new ways to help them manage their money
Work and Pensions Committee calls for more detail on UC changes
04 October, 2017
The chair of the Work and Pensions Select Committee has asked how the government will decide if a Universal Credit claimant is in "immediate need" for a same-day payment
Government slammed for pushing ahead with Universal Credit roll-out
03 October, 2017
The government has been slammed for failing to pause the roll-out of Universal Credit, despite claimants struggling with debt because of delayed payments
UC roll-out will have 'catastrophic consequences'
03 October, 2017
Scottish Federation of Housing Associations calls for the roll-out to be halted
Universal Credit: Advance payments offered as rollout continues
02 October, 2017
Benefit claimants struggling to pay their bills will be able to get cash advances upfront
Next phase in rollout of Universal Credit confirmed
02 October, 2017
The next stage of the rollout of Universal Credit to all claimants starts on Wednesday 4 October 2017
Universal Credit 'fundamentally the right thing to do'
02 October, 2017
Universal Credit is "fundamentally the right thing to do" but there are concerns about how it might impact living standards
Tory rebellion throws Universal Credit reforms into chaos
29 September, 2017
The Government's flagship welfare reforms have been thrown into jeopardy after 12 Conservative MPs wrote a private letter to the Work and Pensions Secretary demanding a pause in the roll-out of Universal Credit
Theresa May urged to halt Universal Credit roll-out
29 September, 2017
Families could be left homeless and destitute if Theresa May insists on pressing ahead with Universal Credit
Twelve Conservative MPs demand pause in Universal Credit
29 September, 2017
The policy at the heart of welfare reform has been thrown into doubt with 12 MPs writing a private letter calling for a halt
Employment and Support Allowance and Universal Credit: changes to the Work Capability Assessment
29 September, 2017
Changes to the Work Capability Assessment reassessment criteria from 29 September 2017
Housing associations should require less rent upfront to combat debt
28 September, 2017
Housing associations in Scotland have been urged to require less rent upfront to combat growing arrears under Universal Credit and the benefit cap
Universal credit is a mean, flawed scheme. Its rollout must be blocked
28 September, 2017
In my Southwark constituency, the Tories' benefits system has already forced many into debt, food poverty and eviction. Others should be saved from it
Advice NI: 'Suspend introduction of Universal Credit'
26 September, 2017
A charity has called for this week's major changes in how benefits are paid in Northern Ireland to be suspended
Universal benefit changes driving more people to doorstep loans says debt manager
26 September, 2017
The woman who heads up a debt management service in the Northern Ireland town where Universal Credit will be first implemented tomorrow has expressed serious concerns about the impact
Universal credit 'making financial abuse easier'
25 September, 2017
Changes to benefit payments have made it easier for abusive partners to withhold money
Foodbanks can't cope with universal credit fallout
25 September, 2017
Charity warns that new benefit is leading more people to seek emergency food parcels
Concerns about how Universal Credit deals with changes of circumstances
25 September, 2017
Elements of Universal Credit will pose significant challenges for claimants, advisers and landlords
DWP to roll out landlord portal to help associations deal with Universal Credit
22 September, 2017
The Department for Work and Pensions has written to the National Housing Federation to notify them they will be rolling the portal out
Government attempts to tackle growing rent arrears under Universal Credit
19 September, 2017
The government will attempt to tackle a sharp increase in rent arrears under Universal Credit by rolling out initiatives that give landlords more control over their tenants' rental payments
Universal credit sends rent arrears soaring
18 September, 2017
Housing chiefs' warning on effect of flagship Tory welfare reform
Universal credit a train wreck that must be stopped
18 September, 2017
Liberal Democrat work and pensions spokesman to call for next month's rollout to be cancelled until overhaul takes place
Universal Credit payment advances: May 2016 to June 2017
15 September, 2017
This publication provides ad hoc statistics on payment advances for claims to Universal Credit for May 2016 to June 2017.
LIN member report September 2017 - The household benefit cap
15 September, 2017
LIN member report by Neil Merrick
Universal Credit forcing PRS tenants into rent arrears
14 September, 2017
More than a third of private landlords with tenants receiving Universal Credit say they are owed rent, up by over 10% since last year
RLA presents Universal Credit evidence to Select Committee
13 September, 2017
The RLA has given evidence to the Work and Pensions Select Committee on the troubled roll out of Universal Credit.
DWP to procure 'off the shelf' appointment booking system for Universal Credit
12 September, 2017
Solution for a five year contract expected to be a 'seven figure sum' for cloud-based system providing 99.9% availability supporting UC.
Universal basic income: Half of Britons back plan to pay all UK citizens regardless of employment
11 September, 2017
Nearly half of Britons would support giving all citizens a cash allowance, regardless of whether they were employed, according to a new survey.
Universal Credit expansion is 'a disaster waiting to happen' says Citizens Advice
11 September, 2017
Citizens Advice is warning that the expansion of Universal Credit is 'a disaster waiting to happen'.
DWP launches new helpline for landlords
08 September, 2017
The DWP has issued a new guide that includes a helpline for landlords who have had their Universal Credit Alternative Payment Arrangement approved and whose tenants will still not communicate with them.
Liverpool Mutual Homes mitigates Universal Credit through predictive analytics
07 September, 2017
Liverpool Mutual Homes have created efficiencies, driven down arrears and helped reduce the impact of Universal Credit
SFHA: UC roll-out will have 'catastrophic consequences'
07 September, 2017
Scottish Federation of Housing Associations warns the continued roll-out of the benefit will hurt some of the most vulnerable in society
Benefit sanctions shoot up 50% in six months
05 September, 2017
The number of sanctions imposed rose from 18,994 last July to 33,860 in December, before falling back to the 30,000 mark by March this year.
New benefits system planned for Dundee is 'broken and should be halted'
05 September, 2017
That's the view of the director of Dundee CAB after several national bodies expressed concerns about the introduction of Universal Credit
How will Universal Credit claimants experiencing homelessness be paid?
05 September, 2017
With the roll out of Universal Credit Full Service set to accelerate in October, what options will ensure people can receive their UC?
DWP publishes Universal Credit guidance
04 September, 2017
The Department for Work and Pensions has published a guidebook for landlords to help them prepare for the roll-out of Universal Credit.
Scottish charities call for halt to roll-out of 'flawed' Universal Credit
01 September, 2017
A group of 24 Scottish charities have come together to urge the UK government to stop the roll-out of the Universal Credit system in Scotland
Scottish charities say 'stop' to UC roll-out
31 August, 2017
Twenty-four charities and individuals sign an open letter urging UK government to 'fix flaws' seen in the system
Universal credit has caused untold hardship. But the worst is yet to come
31 August, 2017
The Conservatives' flagship welfare reform programme is a deeply flawed and damaging scheme
David Gauke signals he will press on with universal credit
29 August, 2017
Work and pensions secretary says benefit changes are 'transforming lives' after MPs called for a pause in their introduction
National Audit Office to re-assess Universal Credit roll-out
25 August, 2017
New report will examine progress after two previous assessments identified key areas of poor performance hindering an 'overly ambitious' programme
Universal credit: ID issues with Irish passport
22 August, 2017
Irish passports and the Northern Ireland driving licence have been posing problems for the computer system processing a new benefits system
Sharp rent arrears rise in Ross-shire blamed on new Universal Credit benefit system
21 August, 2017
Rent arrears for council house tenants have doubled in some areas of Ross-shire in just two years - and the controversial universal credit scheme has been blamed for the sharp rise
Crunch time for Universal Credit
17 August, 2017
The pace of the roll-out of 'full' Universal Credit is set to ramp up in a few months' time
Almost 90% of Universal Credit tenants are in rent arrears
17 August, 2017
South Lanarkshire Council says tenants in receipt of universal credit have accrued rent arrears totalling more than half a million pounds
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 13 Jul 2017
16 August, 2017
These experimental statistics cover numbers of claims made, starts and people on Universal Credit to 13 July 2017
Universal credit and the risk of digital failure
14 August, 2017
With UC being rolled out across the country, a strong digital inclusion strategy can be the difference between successful adoption and a potentially devastating impact on housing associations' income
Welfare Reform and Universal Credit: The impact on the private rented sector
14 August, 2017
Over the past 2 years there has been significant political attention provided to the private rented sector
MPs urge government to delay universal credit rollout
07 August, 2017
MPs' letter calls for extension of universal credit to be postponed until next year to avoid people suffering Christmas hardship
Opposition MPs call for Universal Credit pause
07 August, 2017
A group of opposition MPs have called for the planned rollout of UC in their constituencies to be delayed because of delays in claimants receiving payments
Universal Support-Universal Credit
04 August, 2017
Universal Support is part of Health & Work Programme contained in the government's Green Paper and Universal Credit
DWP to look at RLA proposals on Universal Credit
28 July, 2017
The DWP has said it will address problems faced by landlords who house Universal Credit tenants following a meeting with the RLA
Five ways to help your tenants with the roll-out of universal credit
26 July, 2017
The 'full service' version of universal credit is on its way - so what do social landlords need to be doing differently?
Labour needs to develop an alternative to Universal Credit and the Benefit Freeze
13 July, 2017
Labour has finally spoken about Universal Credit
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 8 Jun 2017
12 July, 2017
These experimental statistics cover numbers of claims made, starts and people on Universal Credit
Councils'discretionary payment spend on benefit cap doubles
07 July, 2017
The amount of DHP funding spent by councils on mitigating the benefit cap has more than doubled year-on-year
Citizens Advice calls for Universal Credit rollout to be paused as research reveals people left facing financial difficulty
07 July, 2017
The rollout of Universal Credit should be paused until significant problems with it are fixed
Universal Credit 'failing' Welsh families
07 July, 2017
Benefit system changes are failing families in Wales and pushing them into debt
Under-occupation the potential impact on housing benefit
06 July, 2017
As LHA rates are based on the number of bedrooms that a tenant and their household needs and not the size of the property occupied, work was required to establish the impact of under-occupancy on Housing Benefit
The estimated impact of the benefit cap on parents, by age of youngest child
06 July, 2017
The benefit cap was first introduced in April 2013 as part of the Welfare Reform Act of 2012
Use of Discretionary Housing Payments - Analysis of End of Year returns from Local Authorities
06 July, 2017
DHP is a discretionary scheme that allows local authorities to make monetary awards to people experiencing financial difficulty
Universal Credit labelled 'minefield of issues'
05 July, 2017
The heavily criticised policy has once again come under fire from housing professionals
Scottish Government Response to the Consultation on Universal Credit (Claims and Payments) (Scotland) Regulations 2017
30 June, 2017
On 16 January 2017, the Scottish Government launched a consultation seeking views on draft regulations on Universal Credit
The Universal Credit (Claims and Payments) (Scotland) Regulations 2017
30 June, 2017
The Scottish Ministers make the following Regulations
Landlords warned to prepare for huge growth in Universal Credit claimants
29 June, 2017
Landlords could see the number of their tenants claiming Universal Credit multiply by up to nine times when their area moves to full digital roll-out
Universal credit rollout in North Kensington halted after tower fire
22 June, 2017
New benefit system will not be introduced in full in July so jobcentre staff can focus on claimants affected by Grenfell blaze
Universal Credit now fully running in Burnley
16 June, 2017
The number of people claiming out of work benefits in Burnley has increased from this time last year, but is still less than in 2025
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 11 May 2017
14 June, 2017
These experimental statistics cover the total live caseload, starts and claims for Universal Credit
Scottish landlords round on 'brutal' Universal Credit
02 June, 2017
Housing associations and local authorities in Scotland have urged the UK government to reconsider on the policy
LIN member report June 2017 - Universal Credit Update
01 June, 2017
LIN member report by Rebecca Wilkie
The RLA's Manifesto: A fairer approach to Welfare Reform
26 May, 2017
There are a growing number of tenants in receipt of benefits now living in the PRS
DWP tests market for appointments booking system for Universal Credit
26 May, 2017
The Department for Work and Pensions is considering procuring a dedicated appointment booking system for Universal Credit claimants
UK Government expecting pregnancies terminated after welfare reform
25 May, 2017
A charity has claimed that the UK Government seems to "be expecting that women will terminate pregnancies" in response to the two-child cap for tax credits and the so-called rape clause
Universal credit 'must be halted' argues Scottish social security minister after Inverness meeting
25 May, 2017
How many people have to suffer before the UK Government freezes the roll out of problematic new benefit changes
Rent Arrears: The human element
24 May, 2017
Rent arrears is a perennial issue for social landlords, as welfare reforms hit tenants and increases the risk they'll fall behind with their payments
Greens to unveil plans for universal basic income in manifesto launch
22 May, 2017
Party will promise to scrap Trident to help fund NHS, promise a final Brexit referendum and scrap all existing student loan debts at Monday's launch
Housing element of Universal Credit for 18-21 year olds
18 May, 2017
This briefing provides an overview of the UK Government's policy of removing entitlement to the housing costs element of Universal Credit for some 18-21 year olds
Council to build shared affordable housing due to welfare reform
10 May, 2017
The first Welsh authority to experience full roll-out of Universal Credit is planning to build more shared accommodation
Eviction trends reveal human cost of Universal Credit roll-out and welfare reform
03 May, 2017
Eviction by social landlords may have increased in recent years
UK foodbank use continues to rise
25 April, 2017
UK foodbank use continues to rise as new report highlights growing impact of Universal Credit rollout on foodbanks
Housing costs for 18 to 21 year olds
21 April, 2017
This guidance explains the rules for housing costs for 18 to 21 year olds getting Universal Credit from 1 April 2017
Housing benefit nightmare: Newcastle council tenants rack up massive rent arrears after changes
20 April, 2017
MP criticises introduction of new Universal Credit benefits system after it was tested in Newcastle - and did not go down well
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 9 Mar 2017
12 April, 2017
These experimental statistics cover the total live caseload, starts and claims for Universal Credit
Homeless 18-21 year olds still entitled to housing cost element of Universal Credit
11 April, 2017
A memo for the DWP decision makers outlines that homeless people, including those moving on, are still entitled to the housing cost element of Universal Credit
How much Universal Credit can I claim? The benefits have changed this week
11 April, 2017
Millions of people who claim a benefit called Universal Credit will see a big change this week
3 million households set to benefit from Universal Credit changes
10 April, 2017
Three million households across the country to keep more of what they earn due to a £700 million boost to Universal Credit
Welfare reform: Government must press ahead with Universal Credit, but crucial changes needed to support struggling families
10 April, 2017
As a raft of changes to the tax and benefit system come into effect, the Government is being urged to press ahead with the rollout of Universal Credit
Universal Credit's right - but we must take stock
07 April, 2017
Three priorities need immediate action to ensure Universal Credit achieves its goals and helps reduce poverty and increase living standards
The Tories are failing the poorest through benefit cuts - by choice
07 April, 2017
If the government truly wants to reduce expenditure on housing benefit it should tackle the root causes, not force young people and families from their homes
Universal Credit: a briefing
06 April, 2017
This briefing provides information and evidence on the latest developments as Universal Credit rolls out across the UK
Universal Credit and families with more than 2 children: information for stakeholders
06 April, 2017
This guidance will help you in your conversations with claimants who may be effected by the Universal Credit 2 child policy
2 child limit: claiming benefits for 2 or more children
06 April, 2017
Information about the 2 child limit for claimants
Universal Credit and families with more than 2 children: information for claimants
06 April, 2017
Information on the two child limit in Universal Credit for existing and new Universal Credit claimants
Universal credit risks destitution in Newcastle claim
03 April, 2017
People in one of the first areas where a major benefits system change has been introduced are at risk of "destitution" and "homelessness"
Housing costs element for UC claimants aged 18 to 21
03 April, 2017
This memo provides guidance on the Universal Credit Regulations 2017
The Big Idea: Universal Basic Income
31 March, 2017
The concept of a Universal Basic Income is currently attracting attention
Money manager tool for Universal Credit claimants
30 March, 2017
An online budgeting tool for people who claim Universal Credit has been launched by the Department for Work and Pensions
Change afoot for homeless families on Universal Credit?
30 March, 2017
Paying housing costs through Universal Credit is causing problems for tenants, landlords and local councils alike
Government rejects calls to halt Universal Credit roll out
29 March, 2017
The government has rejected calls to halt the roll out of Universal Credit
Councils welcome government's Universal Credit U-turn
29 March, 2017
Councils have welcomed the government's move to make households that are made homeless exempt from Universal Credit following reports rent arrears bills have started to rack up
Private landlords need a better deal from Universal Credit
27 March, 2017
Tenants and landlords rightly want to ensure that rents are paid in full and on time
UC policy to be reversed for homeless families
27 March, 2017
Homeless families set to receive housing benefit rather than universal credit due to design flaws in the new benefits system
Pressure mounts on UK government to halt universal credit
23 March, 2017
New system is leaving people destitute, renewing calls for its roll-out to be halted
Universal Credit arrears 'frightening'
22 March, 2017
The deliberate exclusion of social landlords from the Universal Credit system means arrears levels are even worse than was originally feared
SFHA welcomes Scottish Government call to halt Universal Credit full service roll-out
22 March, 2017
Feedback from SFHA members has revealed the system is causing hardship to vulnerable households and has resulted in unprecedented levels of rent arrears
Tory benefits boss slammed after dismissing concerns welfare system is forcing people into rent arrears
21 March, 2017
Damian Green claimed "teething problems" had cleared up despite council figures showing average rent arrears of more than £900 among some Universal Credit claimants
Government 'head in the sand' over Universal Credit
16 March, 2017
"Flabbergasting" response from DWP to the Commons Work and Pensions Committee downplays the impact of issues around the roll out
Housing body shares its concerns over implementation of Universal Credit
16 March, 2017
Housing professionals in Scotland have expressed concern at the potential for a negative social impact and spiralling costs as a result of implementing Universal Credit
Universal Credit Statistics
15 March, 2017
Universal Credit aims to reduce poverty, by making work pay, and to help claimants and their families to become more independent
Poplar HARCA drives down arrears with RentSense
10 March, 2017
Poplar HARCA have created efficiencies, reduced arrears and prepared themselves for Universal Credit by investing in Mobysoft's RentSense application
No DSS: Most flat shares refuse benefit claimants
09 March, 2017
Landlords are more likely to accept potential renters who own pets than people claiming benefits
Budget 2017: housing cuts in spotlight
09 March, 2017
Funding for social care and apprenticeships were the winners in a low-key Budget
Testing the water
09 March, 2017
The 'full-service' Universal Credit roll-out is being road tested in pilots across the country
The Experience of Universal Credit: A Tenant's Perspective
09 March, 2017
Housing Associations in Wales provide 158,000 affordable homes and housing related services to around 10% of the Welsh population
Rules stopping MPs helping benefit claimants to be scrapped
09 March, 2017
U-turn by ministers comes after Guardian revealed DWP was preventing MPs from pursuing individual universal credit cases
Universal Credit in crisis: Calls for roll-out to be halted
08 March, 2017
Claimants on low incomes being left destitute with the introduction of the controversial system
Universal Credit: changes to limited capability for work payments
08 March, 2017
This guide explains changes to Universal Credit limited capability for work payments from 3 April 2017
Philippa Stroud: Hammond should boost Universal Credit now - and cut the deficit through more welfare reform later
03 March, 2017
Budgets should be, and always have the potential to be, nation-changing, nation-shaping events
Impact of Universal Credit
03 March, 2017
Over four-fifths of respondents say that people on zero-hour contracts have difficulty meeting their housing costs
Universal Credit: Rollout speeds up but leaves problems in its wake
01 March, 2017
A key parliamentary committee has re-launched an inquiry into Universal Credit
Broken promises: What has happened to support for low-income working families under universal credit?
01 March, 2017
This briefing presents some of the analysis to be published in a forthcoming report assessing the impacts of cuts to benefits from 2025 to 2020
Tenants terminating tenancies as Universal Credit rolls out
01 March, 2017
Northern Housing Consortium releases its latest findings on the impact of Universal Credit
Universal Credit and you
27 February, 2017
This document gives an introduction to Universal Credit for people who are claiming it
MSPs call for action to address 'systematic problems' with Universal Credit
27 February, 2017
Serious systematic problems exist with the new Universal Credit system which will only get worse as a result of the UK government's planned closure of job centres in Scotland
Committee launches double benefits inquiry
23 February, 2017
The Work and Pensions Committee has launched two new inquiries into the benefit cap and Universal Credit, as concern mounts from the sector
MPs launch official inquiry into universal credit as criticism grows
22 February, 2017
Investigation into benefits system comes amid mounting evidence that payment delays have left thousands facing eviction
Basic income pilot considered in Glasgow
17 February, 2017
Glasgow could be the first city in the UK to pilot a basic universal income for every citizen
Susan Park appointed as Director General, Universal Credit operations
16 February, 2017
Susan Park has been appointed Director General Universal Credit Operations, accountable for its operation in jobcentres and service centres
Benefit freeze tenants 'shouldn't be taken to court for rent arrears'
16 February, 2017
Council tenants should not be taken to court if they cannot pay their rent due to benefit freezes
Landlords refuse to take on new Universal Credit claimants in Great Yarmouth
15 February, 2017
Landlords are refusing to take on tenants who are in the process of claiming for benefits
New budgeting support for Universal Credit claimants
13 February, 2017
Free online support to help Universal Credit claimants with their personal finances has been launched.
Renewed calls to halt Universal Credit pilots
10 February, 2017
The controversial benefits reform pilot scheme should be halted
'I borrowed money from my mum to buy food': life on universal credit
09 February, 2017
Recipients are falling into rent arrears because of payment delays, forcing some to rely on food banks
Freud says Universal Credit figures 'incomprehensible'
08 February, 2017
Lord Freud has defended the scheme in an evidence session, saying there is an "obsession" to find things wrong with policy
Universal credit flaws pushing claimants towards debt and eviction
07 February, 2017
Recipients falling into rent arrears because of payment delays, forcing them to turn to food banks
Benefit Cap
06 February, 2017
There is a limit on the total amount of benefit that most people aged 16 to 64 can get. This is called the benefit cap
Scottish councils warn lower benefit cap putting pressure on DHP budgets
31 January, 2017
A number of Scottish councils have warned they may not be able to afford the full cost of DHPs to cover tenants' rent in the future because of the new lower benefit cap
Universal Credit move 'to benefit 700,000 homes'
30 January, 2017
The Scottish government has said up to 700,000 homes will benefit from its plans to make Universal Credit payments more flexible
Universal basic income 'worrying and expensive'
30 January, 2017
Paying everyone in Wales a universal basic income would be a "worrying and extremely expensive socialist experiment"
Scottish government 'interested' in universal basic income
27 January, 2017
The concept of a universal basic income is of "interest" to the Scottish government as one potential option to reducing poverty and inequality
Council landlords welcome Scottish Government's use of new welfare powers
19 January, 2017
Council housing staff across Scotland have welcomed the news that the Scottish Government will use its new welfare powers to allow the housing element of Universal Credit to be paid directly to landlords
DWP slammed for "shambolic" Universal Credit roll-out
18 January, 2017
MP demands figures on how many people are being put on Universal Credit in error
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 8 Dec 2016
18 January, 2017
These experimental statistics cover the total live caseload, starts and claims for Universal Credit
Universal Credit tenants in arrears increases to 86%
16 January, 2017
The percentage of council tenants on Universal Credit in rent arrears has increased to a "critically high" 86% over the past year
Universal Credit to be paid more regularly in Scotland
16 January, 2017
The Scottish Government plans to use its new social security powers for the first time to make Universal Credit payments more regular
Universal Credit - Progress Update
16 January, 2017
This publication sets out the results of a survey launched in November 2016 of 33 stock retaining councils and Arm's Length Management Organisations
First use of new Scots welfare powers over Universal Credit
13 January, 2017
The Scottish government plans use its new social security powers for the first time to increase the frequency of Universal Credit payments
Welfare changes 'damaging' to low income families
05 January, 2017
Minister for Social Security Jeane Freeman has expressed strong opposition to the UK Government on its proposal to limit the number of children in families who can qualify for Child Tax Credit
Families left with just 50p a week in housing benefit after cuts
05 January, 2017
Forty-two Grimsby-area families have been left with 50p or less a week in Housing Benefit, following rules that brought in a lower cap for claimants
Midland Heart has deployed rostrvm for Housing to tackle the impact of Universal Credit
04 January, 2017
Midland Heart is a leading UK housing, care and support business, providing 33,000 high quality affordable homes to over 70,000 customers
Universal basic income trials being considered in Scotland
03 January, 2017
Two councils, Fife and Glasgow, are investigating idea of offering everyone a fixed income regardless of earnings
New Universal Credit benefits system in East Lothian linked to petty crime
22 December, 2016
A controversial new benefits system has been cited as an increased factor in instances of petty crime
East Lothian rent arrears up 20 per cent in first three months of Universal Credit
20 December, 2016
Universal Credit has caused a 20 per cent rise in rent arrears from East Lothian Council tenants in just three months
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 10 Nov 2016
14 December, 2016
Statistics on Universal Credit claims from 29 April 2013 to 10 November 2016
Universal Credit roll out to begin in September 2017
07 December, 2016
Communities Minister Paul Givan today announced plans for the roll out of Universal Credit in Northern Ireland
One in three people claiming sickness benefits have conditions which are fuelled by obesity
06 December, 2016
One in three people claiming benefits because they are too sick to work have conditions which are fuelled by obesity, a government review has found
Kayleigh is on universal credit. Her first payment arrives next year
02 December, 2016
The built-in delay in universal credit payments means she and her two young children will have to rely on £34/week child benefit over Christmas
Minister who helped create the Universal Credit leaves government
02 December, 2016
A minister instrumental to Conservative welfare reform has left his government post after more than six years
Benefit sanctions
30 November, 2016
This report examines the Department for Work & Pensions' administration of benefit sanctions in Great Britain
Scotland could trial giving each citizen a universal basic income
25 November, 2016
Development of radical scheme, which would see welfare benefits including child and tax credits replaced with universal flat-rate payment, due to be tested in Fife
Widened scope of LHA cap 'to affect over 240,000 more tenancies in Scotland'
24 November, 2016
The SFHA has highlighted that 241,000 more tenants in Scotland will be affected by the announcement that all social housing tenants on Universal Credit will be brought under the new LHA cap
Autumn Statement 2016: Iain Duncan Smith tells Philip Hammond to do more to reverse welfare cuts
24 November, 2016
The former Work and Pensions Secretary welcomes moves to cushion cuts to universal credit - but says they must be a 'downpayment' only
Millions affected by universal credit cuts to be partly compensated by chancellor
22 November, 2016
Philip Hammond will attempt in the autumn statement to fulfil PM's pledge to support families who are 'just about managing'
LHA cap will hit existing Universal Credit tenants
22 November, 2016
The government has announced the Local Housing Allowance cap will apply to all tenants who receive Universal Credit, in a significant change that could affect thousands of tenants
Universal Credit pilot council calls for suspension
22 November, 2016
One of the councils piloting the roll-out of Universal Credit has written to the Department for Work and Pensions calling for the immediate suspension of the housing benefit part of the new system
Housing Benefit and Universal Credit: Written statement - HCWS273
21 November, 2016
One of the Government's key commitments is to protect the most vulnerable
We must reform Universal Credit to prevent it from penalising low-earners
21 November, 2016
When the government announced plans to cut £4bn of in-work social security in its summer budget last year, it was widely condemned by commentators and organisations for hitting some of the poorest working families hardest
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 13 Oct 2016
16 November, 2016
Statistics on Universal Credit claims from 29 April 2013 to 13 October 2016
Spike in food bank usage blamed on delays in benefit claims
15 November, 2016
MP Frank Field calls for five-day target to process applications, saying too many being left for too long without support
Employees £3,500 a year worse off under Tories
14 November, 2016
Party says slow wage growth means chancellor should not go ahead with 'damaging cuts' to universal credit
Theresa May has kept George Osborne's most callous and stupid welfare cut in place
09 November, 2016
The benefit cap doesn't address the underlying reason why a small minority of families receive outsize benefit payments, which is that rents have soared due to a chronic shortage of new housing supply
Benefits squeeze
08 November, 2016
The lower benefit cap has kicked in, a day that many households may have been anxiously awaiting, faced with the prospect of losing up to £100 a week.
Social landlords fund research into Universal Credit
04 November, 2016
A London council has commissioned independent research into the effects of Universal Credit on social housing tenants
Direct payment to landlords could be six years away
01 November, 2016
The direct payment of the housing element of Universal Credit to social landlords may not happen until 2022
Universal Credit: and welfare cuts effect on incomes
31 October, 2016
Universal Credit is a single payment made to welfare claimants that rolls together six existing benefits whilst encouraging people into work by making work pay
Anger of IDS over £3.4bn welfare cuts: Former minister to call for cuts imposed by George Osborne to be reversed
28 October, 2016
Iain Duncan Smith resigned from Cabinet shortly before EU referendum
Iain Duncan Smith urges PM to reverse Universal Credit cuts
28 October, 2016
Former Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith is urging Theresa May to reverse cuts to Universal Credit
Jobcentre areas where couples and families can claim Universal Credit
26 October, 2016
Universal Credit is already available to single people throughout Great Britain. It is also available to couples and families in some jobcentre areas
Employment support cuts could affect 45,000 disabled jobseekers
24 October, 2016
Association warns schemes set to replace current government programmes are dramatically smaller
Exceptions to the limiting of the individual Child Element of Child Tax Credit and the Child Element of Universal Credit to a maximum of two children
24 October, 2016
The consultation seeks views and evidence in relation to the detailed design and implementation of the exceptions to the policy to limit the Individual Child Element of Child Tax Credit and the Child Element of Universal Credit to a maximum of two children
DWP to create new Universal Credit tech lead role
21 October, 2016
Recruitment underway for entirely new position to oversee technology scope of the new digital service gradually being trialled as part of government's delayed welfare reforms
Theresa May faces Tory backlash over planned cuts to in-work benefits
21 October, 2016
Backbenchers girding themselves' for campaign to make new system of universal credit fairer before chancellor's autumn statement
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 6 Oct 2016
19 October, 2016
Statistics on Universal Credit claims from 29 April 2013 to 6 October 2016
Universal Credit opened up work for Beverley and now she's really enjoying her job
19 October, 2016
Here's how Beverley was offered the job and has continued to receive support from Universal Credit since
BME communities 'disproportionately impacted' by Universal Credit
19 October, 2016
With the BME National conference later this week, 24housing are publishing a series of pieces to mark the occasion
Universal Credit - and help with budgeting
14 October, 2016
Universal Credit is opening up work for people across the North West by making more opportunities available than ever before
Universal Credit is "less generous" than tax credits
13 October, 2016
For the first time, an authoritative statutory body has recognised that the cuts to Universal Credit announced in last summer's Budget will mean that it is much less generous than was originally planned
Rent arrears: Lost in translation
05 October, 2016
New research has claimed an indisputable link between the introduction of Universal Credit and tenants getting behind in their rent
Universal Credit: In Work Progression Randomised Control Trial
30 September, 2016
Universal Credit will support people in work to earn more
The banking needs of Universal Credit claimants: the potential role of budgeting accounts
29 September, 2016
This report presents evidence on the potential role of budgeting accounts for Universal Credit claimants
Stoke-on-Trent councillors raise concerns over Universal Credit
27 September, 2016
Dozens of benefit claimants have fallen into debt after being hit by the introduction of Universal Credit
PM needs to 'get a grip of Universal Credit roll-out'
23 September, 2016
Labour hit back on new Universal Credit guidance from the Department of Work and Pensions, which shows people's award drop if they get paid twice in one month
Universal Credit: different earning patterns and your payments
23 September, 2016
This guide provides information about different earnings patterns and how these may affect your Universal Credit payment
Jeremy Corbyn to investigate idea of universal basic income
15 September, 2016
Labour leader to 'research and test' policy that would give every citizen a taxpayer-funded income
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 1 Sept 2016
14 September, 2016
Statistics on Universal Credit claims from 29 April 2013 to 1 September 2016
Minister reveals 'Trusted Partner' landlords
13 September, 2016
The government has revealed the social landlords piloting a scheme to stop vulnerable Universal Credit claimants falling into debt
Magenta Living's investment in Rentsense helps to mitigate Universal Credit
12 September, 2016
Magenta Living invested in Mobysoft's predictive analytical tool Rentsense to help create efficiencies within their income function
Learning the lessons from Universal Credit
06 September, 2016
This report looks at the failure and potential recovery of Universal Credit, the ambitious government project to simplify the welfare system
The lower overall benefit cap: what do we need to know?
01 September, 2016
Last week the government confirmed that the new, lower overall benefit cap will be introduced from the 7 November
Universal credit delays forcing people to food banks
25 August, 2016
Delays in government's flagship welfare reform has caused debt, rent arrears and health problems
My challenge to Lord Freud, Minister of State for Welfare Reform: Can you live on 63pence per week for nearly seven weeks?
22 August, 2016
If the answer to that question is No, then why are you imposing a policy on Universal Credit claimants that achieves just this?
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 4 Aug 2016
17 August, 2016
Statistics on Universal Credit claims from 29 April 2013 to 4 August 2016
Latest universal credit roll out schedule announced
12 August, 2016
The department of work and pensions have announced the next stages of the universal credit rollout schedule
Benefit Cap
08 August, 2016
There is a limit on the total amount of benefit that most people aged 16 to 64 can get. This is called the benefit cap
Social Landlord Support Pack
01 August, 2016
Getting social tenants ready for direct payment of housing costs
Universal Credit scheme delayed
21 July, 2016
Ministers have announced a further delay to the government's flagship Universal Credit scheme
Universal credit falls five years behind schedule
21 July, 2016
Troubled welfare scheme will now not be completed until 2022, the seventh announced delay since 2013
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 7 Jul 2016
20 July, 2016
Statistics on Universal Credit claims from 29 April 2013 to 7 Jul 2016
Freud orders 'urgent' review into Universal Credit arrears
18 July, 2016
Lord David Freud has commissioned an 'urgent' review into the high rate of rent arrears owed by Universal Credit claimants
Universal Credit Statistical Ad Hoc: Data on Alternative Payment Arrangements
13 July, 2016
This publication provides ad hoc statistics on Managed Payment to Landlord (MPTL) Alternative Payment Arrangements (APAs) in Universal Credit Live Service
Universal Credit evaluation framework: 2016
11 July, 2016
This document updates the original framework by reviewing what we have done so far and setting out future evaluation plans
Universal Credit online channel usage
11 July, 2016
This publication provides ad hoc statistics on the online completion of tasks by claimants in the Universal Credit full service
Universal Credit: Data on alternative payment arrangements
11 July, 2016
Statistics on Managed Payment to Landlord (MPTL) Alternative Payment Arrangements (APAs) in the Universal Credit live service
Suffolk Housing Society takes steps to mitigate Universal Credit
08 July, 2016
Suffolk Housing Society, a social landlord in East Anglia with over 2,500 properties, has invested in Mobysoft's Rentsense solution to help them mitigate the rent cut and Universal Credit
LIN Press Release - Evaluation of the Universal Support delivered locally trials
08 July, 2016
This report presents findings from the evaluation of the 'Universal Support - delivered locally' trials, which ran in eleven areas of Great Britain between September 2014 and August/November 2015
Universal Credit forcing landlords into evictions
07 July, 2016
The Universal Credit system that replaced six means-tested benefits and tax credits is causing people to be unnecessarily evicted
Evaluation of the Universal Support delivered locally trials
07 July, 2016
This report presents findings from evaluation of the Universal Support delivered locally trials
Universal Credit expands to all claimants in 5 more areas
29 June, 2016
Universal Credit becomes available to all types of claimant in Harrogate, Richmond (North Yorkshire), Inverness, Hammersmith and Ryedale
Impact of Universal Credit
22 June, 2016
Average level of rent arrears of Universal Credit claimants in participating organisations has risen by 41.1% since roll out
DWP spending on IT contractors rockets amid Universal Credit delays
21 June, 2016
Spending on external IT contractors by the Department for Work and Pensions has rocketed to £8m every month in a desperate attempt to get the heavily delayed Universal Credit scheme back on track
NFA floats switch to monthly rent collection
15 June, 2016
NFA is gathering the views of its members on moving from weekly to monthly rent collection
Three-quarters of Benefit Claimants Worried about Future Welfare Changes
15 June, 2016
New research by the national charity Turn2us has found that 73% of low income households claiming means-tested benefits are worried about the welfare system
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 2 Jun 2016
15 June, 2016
Statistics on Universal Credit claims from 29 April 2013 to 2 June 2016
Debt and food banks: the legacy of universal credit's Long Hello
10 June, 2016
There is fresh evidence that lengthy waits for a first benefit payment faced by universal credit claimants trigger hunger and rent arrears
Universal Credit Leads to Rent Arrears
09 June, 2016
Universal Credit is to blame for 79% of rent arrears since its roll-out in England.
Learning from testing times
08 June, 2016
Early evidence of the impact of universal credit in Scotland's CAB network
Universal Credit leads to rent arrears
07 June, 2016
Universal Credit is to blame for 79% of rent arrears cases
If housing's your problem, Universal Basic Income isn't the answer
07 June, 2016
A lot of young people support a universal basic income
Universal Basic Income: Dream or Nightmare?
02 June, 2016
We look at a radical economic plan being put forward by Swiss campaigners - free cash for everyone
Landlords remind tenants of forthcoming benefit cap
31 May, 2016
Three County Durham landlords are advising tenants of a limit that may be placed on their benefit allowance later this year
Nearly £50 million awarded under Discretionary Housing Payments scheme in Scotland
31 May, 2016
Nearly £50 million was spent to support housing costs for those in financial hardship in Scotland during 2015/16
Universal Credit is on the way for everyone claiming benefits in East Hampshire
27 May, 2016
The man behind the roll out of the new Universal Credit benefit in East Hampshire, says he would rather help people back into work than earn much more working in the private sector
Universal Credit expands to all claimants in 5 areas today
26 May, 2016
Bath, Newcastle, Bridgwater, Rugby and Lowestoft all expand Universal Credit
Universal Credit if you have a disability or health condition: quick guide
26 May, 2016
The support that is available for Universal Credit claimants who have a disability or health condition
Benefit fraud and error at record low level
20 May, 2016
New figures show that fraud and error in the benefits system remains at the lowest level ever recorded
Implementing Direct Payment of Housing Benefit: An Evaluation of Circle Housing's HB2U Pilot Project
19 May, 2016
This report provides findings from the evaluation of Circle Housing's HB2U Housing Benefit Direct Payment Pilot project
Landlord reveals findings of direct payment 'pilot'
19 May, 2016
A housing association is calling for changes to Universal Credit, after its unofficial 'pilot' showed tenants receiving housing benefit payments direct are more likely to fall into arrears
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 5 May 2016
18 May, 2016
Statistics on Universal Credit claims from 29 April 2013 to 5 May 2016
Circle Housing urges Government to commit to extra support for residents moving to Universal Credit
18 May, 2016
A leading housing association is calling on the Government to commit to additional face to face support for residents before they are moved on to Universal Credit
DWP to change Universal Credit procedures
16 May, 2016
The government has pledged to improve Universal Credit procedures this summer, following concerns from social landlords that they are frequently not informed that their tenants are claiming the benefit
Universal credit is working, insists work and pensions secretary
12 May, 2016
Stephen Crabb rejects claim UC no longer serves original purpose of making people better off in work than on benefits
New DWP secretary Stephen Crabb signals further disability benefit changes to cut spending
12 May, 2016
Mr Crabb said the Government would adopt 'smart strategies' for reducing expenditure
Plans to force workers on universal credit to take second job 'risky'
12 May, 2016
MPs warn that sanctions against low-paid workers claiming benefits could be counterproductive or leave them worse off
Universal Credit will increase child poverty
11 May, 2016
Research has warned that cuts to the new benefit system undermine its stated purpose
Harlow groups defy report to support Universal Credit
06 May, 2016
Clients of support charity Home-Start Harlow have welcomed Universal Credit after a think tank criticised the benefit reform
More Trap Than Trampoline: Universal Credit Is Failing To Help People Progress
03 May, 2016
Although the new Work and Pensions Secretary has stopped cuts to disability benefits he seems to be in lock-step with his predecessor in worrying that the benefit system "locks people into workless-ness"
New Work and Pensions Secretary must reclaim Universal Credit from the Treasury
03 May, 2016
Resolution Foundation calls for major reforms as full roll-out of Universal Credit begins this month
Rollout of flagship welfare reform Universal Credit reaches historic milestone
03 May, 2016
Universal Credit is now in every jobcentre across the country for single jobseekers
Many landlords 'will stop renting to tenants on Universal Credit'
28 April, 2016
The Government's new Universal Credit payments could have a disastrous impact on the private rented sector, with more and more landlords refusing to let to tenants on benefits
All Scottish jobcentres now offer Universal Credit
26 April, 2016
Last 5 offices in Scotland switch over to offer the new service
Is universal basic income too simplistic to meet housing need?
26 April, 2016
For supporters of basic income, Beveridge's 'problem of rent' is an even bigger headache today than it was in the 40s
More than 225,000 households claiming Universal Credit
25 April, 2016
More than 225,000 people are now claiming the government's Universal Credit benefit
UK: Millions of low income families will be poorer under welfare reforms
25 April, 2016
This month, cuts to Universal Credit - the Tory government's cover scheme for slashing welfare - were implemented for some 80,000 households
The social landlords stepping in to help computer-illiterate residents
25 April, 2016
Universal credit will hugely increase demand for digital access - so housing associations have started doing more for tenants without the internet
What could a Citizen's Income do for the housing crisis?
22 April, 2016
There's been an upsurge of interest in Universal Basic Income (UBI), or Citizen's Income
Impact of capping Housing Benefit at Local Housing Allowance rates
21 April, 2016
The Chancellor of the Exchequer announced in his Autumn Statement that housing benefit and housing costs within Universal Credit for social housing tenants will be capped
Landlords claim Universal Credit is 'shambolic'
20 April, 2016
Universal Credit payments could have a disastrous impact on the private rented sector
Universal Credit statistics: background information and methodology
20 April, 2016
Information about Universal Credit statistics methodology including the purpose, source, definitions and limitations of statistics covered
Every jobcentre in Yorkshire now offers Universal Credit
18 April, 2016
Last 4 offices in Yorkshire switch over to new service
DWP 'punishing' low-paid full-time workers under new benefits rule
15 April, 2016
Critics say scheme under which working people claiming universal credit can be fined for failing to do enough to find more work is 'political dynamite'
Testing times ahead for Universal Credit
13 April, 2016
The government's scheme to overhaul the welfare system has been the subject of much scrutiny in Westminster, but now the same is happening outside a north London job centre
Stephen Crabb 'committed' to Universal Credit
12 April, 2016
Work and Pensions Secretary Stephen Crabb has said he is "absolutely committed" to the government's flagship Universal Credit reform
Claim tax credits before Universal Credit arrives
12 April, 2016
Low-income workers are being urged to claim any tax credits sooner rather than later
£300 million childcare boost for hard-working families under Universal Credit
11 April, 2016
Parents on Universal Credit will now be able to claim back 85% of their childcare costs when they move into work - up from 70%
Is Universal Credit doomed to fail?
11 April, 2016
Later this month Universal Credit will finally roll across the country, but the Department of Work and Pensions is being challenged in court to release files about its management in the early days
Universal credit cuts to lose low-income families up to £200 a month
11 April, 2016
Changes to be introduced on Monday will push more low-paid working families into poverty
Jobseeker's Allowance and Universal Credit back to work schemes
01 April, 2016
Guidance about the different back to work schemes available to JSA and Universal Credit claimants
Fears council house evictions could rise due to benefits changes
01 April, 2016
Aberdeenshire's local authority has raised concerns that the number of council house evictions in the area may rise under the government's new universal credit scheme
Personal Budgeting Support and Alternative Payment Arrangements
01 April, 2016
Universal Credit Guidance
Charity workers fear benefit claimants will struggle as Universal Credit is rolled out in SE1
31 March, 2016
It is revealed that new applicants will have to wait six weeks for first payment, and will need a bank account
Stephen Crabb urged to overhaul 'salami-sliced' universal credit system
29 March, 2016
Shadow work and pensions secretary Owen Smith says the welfare policy will hit millions of low-paid workers in the pocket
Universal Credit Support in Bradford
24 March, 2016
Social Housing provider Incommunities and Bradford District Credit Union talk to BCB Radio about their partnership with Bradford Council to support those receiving Universal Credit
Failures and u-turns: the Conservative Party's record on welfare
23 March, 2016
Welfare reform and its implementation has been a crucial test for the Conservative Party's rebrand
All Welsh jobcentres switch over to Universal Credit
21 March, 2016
Wales becomes the first nation in the UK to complete the rollout of Universal Credit
IDS loses legal challenge to keep Universal Credit problems secret
21 March, 2016
Iain Duncan Smith has lost his latest attempt to keep potentially damning Universal Credit documents secret
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 3 Mar 2016
16 March, 2016
Statistics on Universal Credit claims from 29 April 2013 to 3 March 2016
Tories must reverse Universal Credit cuts to show they're serious about helping savers
14 March, 2016
The Tories have been criticised for inconsistency following the announcement of their 'Help to Save' scheme
Every jobcentre in London and home counties switched to Universal Credit
14 March, 2016
Over 95% of jobcentres now offer Universal Credit
Universal Credit cuts will leave millions of families worse off
14 March, 2016
A single mum working full time on the minimum wage and who has two kids will be stripped of £554 a year
Coalition of 60 national disability charities condemn Tory cuts to ESA
09 March, 2016
'The cuts to employment and support allowance and universal credit mark a step backwards for disabled people'
Universal Credit work allowances
08 March, 2016
Information about changes to the Universal Credit work allowances from April 2016
JSA sanction decisions relating to Universal Jobmatch: Jun 2013 to Jun 2015
01 March, 2016
Number of Jobseeker's Allowance sanction decisions relating to Universal Jobmatch
Compromised and under pressure: social housing in the wake of universal credit
01 March, 2016
Welfare reform has spurred record levels of debt among tenants, with 25% of council tenants on universal credit facing legal action in some areas
BT accused of 'shameless profiteering' over universal credit helpline
29 February, 2016
Tim Farron estimates the telecoms company has made a minimum of £1.49m from calls made by people struggling with the new benefits system
Universal Credit in all jobcentres in the Humber and north-east Yorkshire
29 February, 2016
New milestone reached as over 660 jobcentres now offer Universal Credit
90% of jobcentres now offer Universal Credit
22 February, 2016
Today, 16 more jobcentres will start offering the new benefit
LIN member report February 2016 - Universal Credit Update
22 February, 2016
LIN member report by Rebecca Wilkie
Iain Duncan Smith refuses to set up freephone for families claiming benefits
18 February, 2016
Universal credit system will be claimed either online or by ringing an 0345 number, which costs 45p a minute from mobile or 12p a minute from landline
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 4 Feb 2016
17 February, 2016
Statistics on Universal Credit claims from 29 April 2013 to 4 February 2016
Transition Rollout Schedule - Phases 1 and 2: May to December 2016
16 February, 2016
The full Universal Credit service remains on track to be delivered nationally for all types of claimants from May 2016, completing in June 2018
Universal Credit transition to full service
11 February, 2016
Local authorities and jobcentre areas that will transition to the full Universal Credit service
Universal Credit reaches 20 more jobcentres this week
08 February, 2016
Universal Credit is now available in 623 jobcentres, helping over a quarter of a million people to find work faster and earn more
We need to get Universal Credit back on track
04 February, 2016
Universal Credit can be a tool to deliver economic security for low-income families but changes are undermining and undoing its promise
Universal Credit: New concerns over delays and lack of clarity
04 February, 2016
The Public Accounts Committee highlights concerns over the roll-out of Universal Credit
Universal credit cuts support for working families, but helps make work pay where current system creates worst problems
03 February, 2016
During this parliament the government plans to replace most of the means-tested benefits system for working-age families with a single payment called universal credit
Universal Credit and April Rent Increases
03 February, 2016
The DWP has confirmed that there will be no facility this year for the bulk transfer of data to adjust Universal Credit benefit payments for rent increases
The (changing) effects of universal credit
03 February, 2016
The government is in the process of integrating six means - tested benefits and tax credits for working - age families into a single payment called universal credit
The legal aspects behind the successful Bedroom Tax appeals
01 February, 2016
Benefits payable as DHPs are discretionary and are administered by the relevant local authority
Universal Credit available across Essex in latest rollout
01 February, 2016
Fifteen more jobcentres now offer Universal Credit, with nearly 600 offices live nationwide
Changeover to universal credit is driving people into long-term debt
27 January, 2016
Waits of more than seven weeks for the first payment create arrears that can plague claimants for months or years
Jobcentre areas where you can claim Universal Credit
25 January, 2016
Universal Credit is being introduced in stages. You may be able to claim Universal Credit if you live in certain parts of the UK
Universal credit: 4 top tips for housing providers
25 January, 2016
The roll-out of universal credit has been very gradual but from April job centres in every part of the country will be processing claims
Even if Universal Credit is eventually implemented, most will now lose out
20 January, 2016
Perhaps no government reform has been billed as more transformative than Universal Credit
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 7 Jan 2016
20 January, 2016
Statistics on Universal Credit claims from 29 April 2013 to 7 January 2016
You can now claim Universal Credit at 80% of all jobcentres
18 January, 2016
New milestone reached with 568 jobcentres offering the new benefit
New video launches to help end most tenancy deposit disputes
12 January, 2016
Universal Credit is being introduced in stages. You may be able to claim Universal Credit if you live in certain parts of the UK
NFA & ARCH Welfare Reform 2015 Analysis
07 January, 2016
NFA and ARCH survey reveals 89% of Universal Credit Claimants in rent arrears
Tories latest welfare attack set to be torpedoed by House of Lords
06 January, 2016
The Lib Dems will spearhead a drive to derail cuts to Universal Credit when they come before the House of Lords
Iain Duncan Smith is offering £140,000 a year for someone to take charge of his troubled Universal Credit programme
31 December, 2015
The successful candidate will be among the top-paid civil servants and will earn more than the Work and Pensions Secretary himself
4 New Year budgeting tips for universal credit claimants in South West Wales
31 December, 2015
With the New Year fast approaching and with family finances traditionally tighter after the festive season, many in the region could take advantage of budgeting advice
Benefit cuts: George Osborne urged to make U-turn on universal credit
30 December, 2015
Advisers warn merging of in-work benefits threatens to undo 'welcome decision to reverse tax credit changes'
Universal Credit vs JSA - what's the difference?
22 December, 2015
Our benefits and money team are working to advise Isos residents on how to prepare for Universal Credit as it gets introduced across the North East
Government response: SSAC report on Universal Credit
21 December, 2015
This is the government's response to the report 'Universal Credit: priorities for action' by the Social Security Advisory Committee
Government response to SSAC Occasional Paper 15
21 December, 2015
This is the government's response to the report 'Universal Credit: priorities for action' by the Social Security Advisory Committee (SSAC)
Online Universal Credit could exclude thousands
18 December, 2015
Although the internet is quickly becoming an integral part of our everyday private, public and working lives, there are still one in five UK adults unable to complete simple tasks like paying bills online
Universal Credit and rented housing
18 December, 2015
These guides explain what Universal Credit means for landlords, local authorities and tenants
Timeline confirmed for digital Universal Credit
18 December, 2015
The Department for Work and Pensions updated on the rollout plans for the digital Universal Credit service when giving evidence to the Public Accounts Select Committee last week
Benefit cuts under universal credit could be illegal
17 December, 2015
Shadow work and pensions secretary says differences between tax credits and new welfare system are discriminatory and leave families worse off
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 3 Dec 2015
16 December, 2015
Statistics on Universal Credit claims from 29 April 2013 to 3 December 2015
Thousands of benefit staff face the axe as Tories ramp up plans to cut cash with Universal Credit
15 December, 2015
Some 5,000 staff are primed for the axe as part of Universal Credit - which is already being trialled in three-quarters of all job centres
Universal Credit - is it working and will it do enough?
14 December, 2015
By September 2015, nearly 175 000 people had made a claim for Universal Credit
Universal Credit now in three-quarters of all jobcentres
14 December, 2015
New milestone reached with over a quarter of a million claims made to Universal Credit
The Government must not be distracted from delivering Universal Credit
08 December, 2015
In the wake of the Tax Credits debate, it would be extremely easy to be distracted from arguably the most important legacy of a Conservative-led welfare agenda: Universal Credit
Universal Credit at Work (December 2015)
08 December, 2015
A progress report on how Universal Credit is restoring work incentives, restoring fairness and transforming claimants' lives
Universal Credit claimants significantly more likely to get a job
08 December, 2015
People claiming Universal Credit are significantly more likely to move into work than those on Jobseeker's Allowance
Welfare reforms will still take £3bn from poorest Britons
07 December, 2015
Costings after U-turn on tax credits reveal changes to universal credit will save the Treasury almost as much money
Universal Credit: estimating the early labour market impacts: updated analysis
07 December, 2015
This analysis assesses the short-term impact of Universal Credit and informs its further development
Universal Credit now in almost 550 jobcentres
07 December, 2015
On 7th December 18 more jobcentre offices start offering Universal Credit
Engaging with tenants is everyone's job
03 December, 2015
I remember listening to a speaker describing how the housing sector was then perceived to be in the middle of 'the perfect storm' of issues including welfare reform and universal credit
Housing provider helps transition to Universal Credit
03 December, 2015
The Government's new welfare system is coming to Teesside and one local housing provider is helping their tenants get to grips with the changes
Universal Credit comes into force on the Isle of Wight
02 December, 2015
The government's new Universal Credit scheme will be implemented on the Isle of Wight from 7 December
LIN Member Report December 2015 - Spending Review and Autumn Statement
02 December, 2015
LIN member report by Claire Turner
The tax credit reversal is great news - but Universal Credit is what matters
27 November, 2015
Reversing Tax Credit reductions will give families valuable breathing space but it's Universal Credit that's important in the long term
Low-income working families on Universal Credit set to lose £1,300
27 November, 2015
Working households on Universal Credit are set to lose an average of £1,000 in 2020, rising to £1,300 for those with children
The devil is in the detail: most tax credit cuts rolled back, but cuts to Universal Credit going ahead
26 November, 2015
Many of the tax credit cuts announced by Chancellor George Osborne in the 2015 Budget were rolled back today
Residents left without food or electricity while waiting for first benefits payment
25 November, 2015
People claiming the new universal credit have been left unable to pay their rent or afford food or electricity
Universal Credit now available in 70% of all jobcentres
23 November, 2015
More job centres across Britain now offer Universal Credit as 12 more offices take new claims
JSA, UC, ESA and IS sanction decisions in Wales: Apr 2025 to Mar 2015
20 November, 2015
Number of JSA, UC, ESA and IS claimants in Wales who have received at least one sanction decision during April 2025 to March 2015
Flaws in universal credit system leaving vulnerable people penniless
18 November, 2015
Built-in delay of at least 42 days before claimants receive payments leaves people struggling to pay bills and buy food
George Osborne abandons cuts to Universal Credit after IDS quit threat
16 November, 2015
Iain Duncan Smith has "won the day" and seen off attempts by George Osborne to cut £2bn from Universal Credit
Universal Credit now available in over 500 jobcentres
16 November, 2015
More jobcentres across Britain now offer Universal Credit as 17 more sites start taking new claims from today
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 29 October 2015
11 November, 2015
Statistics on Universal Credit claims from 29 April 2013 to 29 October 2015
Labour hits out at Osborne's planned cuts to universal credit
09 November, 2015
Opposition says families will be worse off if taper rate is raised by chancellor, with dissent also evident among Conservatives
Universal Credit now available in nearly 70% of all jobcentres
09 November, 2015
Universal Credit reaches 492 jobcentres as 22 more start taking new claims from Monday 9 November 2015
Universal Credit: Iain Duncan Smith resists Treasury cuts
09 November, 2015
Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith is resisting Treasury efforts to make the new Universal Credit benefit less generous
George Osborne to raid Iain Duncan Smith's Universal Credit
06 November, 2015
George Osborne and Iain Duncan Smith clash over plans to soften the impact of tax credit cuts by raiding the budget for Universal Credit
Universal Credit will make the benefits system worse for people with mental health issues
05 November, 2015
The Government's new Universal Credit welfare reform is likely to make the benefits system more hostile for people with mental health issues
Labour attempts to build support to block universal credit cuts
04 November, 2015
Opposition claims George Osborne's cost-saving measures will hit hardworking families by reducing incentives to work
Universal Credit information for claimants in Croydon, Southwark and Sutton
04 November, 2015
Universal Credit in the CR0 2 and CR0 4 postcode areas of Croydon, SE1 5 postcode area of Southwark and SM5 2, SM6 7, SM6 8 and SM6 9 postcode areas of Sutton
Universal Credit: how it can help your business
02 November, 2015
Information for employers about Universal Credit and the changes it brings
Universal Credit: how it helps you into work
02 November, 2015
If you're on a low income or out of work, Universal Credit supports you to find a job or increase the hours you work
Universal Credit now available in 470 jobcentres
02 November, 2015
Universal Credit is available in 16 more from jobcentres from Monday 2 November
Universal Credit: expression of interest for Trusted Partner Pilot
30 October, 2015
We are seeking expressions of interest from landlords to join the Trusted Partner Pilot to help Universal Credit tenants manage their rent
Universal Credit now available in over 60% of jobcentres in the UK
26 October, 2015
Over 450 jobcentres now offer Universal Credit as 25 more start taking new claims from 26 October 2015
Jobcentre areas where you can claim Universal Credit
19 October, 2015
Universal Credit is being introduced in stages. You may be able to claim Universal Credit if you live in certain parts of the UK
Iain Duncan Smith's flagship Universal Credit roll-out is actually slowing
15 October, 2015
The scheme has been plagued by problems and delays since its launch
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 17 Sept 2015
14 October, 2015
Statistics on Universal Credit claims from 29 April 2013 to 17 September 2015
Universal Credit in 15 more jobcentres in Sussex, Scotland, Kent and the East Midlands
12 October, 2015
15 more jobcentres start offering Universal Credit - the new benefit that means you are better off in work
Universal Credit in 13 more jobcentres in Scotland, the Midlands and London
05 October, 2015
13 more jobcentres start offering Universal Credit - the new benefit that means you are better off in work
Bedroom tax and landlord's bedroom count - UT again
02 October, 2015
The Upper Tribunal seems to have taken an opportunity to re-state, in clear terms, one of the findings of SSWP v David Nelson and Fife Council
Universal Credit has landed
01 October, 2015
It's here, it's finally here! Universal Credit is rolling out across Scotland and I can tell you a little about what it looks like
Universal Credit in 15 more jobcentres in Suffolk, Berkshire and Yorkshire
28 September, 2015
15 more jobcentres start offering Universal Credit - the new benefit means that you are better off in work
Universal Credit digital tests to be expanded to third trial area
28 September, 2015
London Bridge will begin select trials of enhanced digital service for benefit reforms from the autumn as national rollout plans continue
National rollout of Universal Credit continues
21 September, 2015
Today, 24 more jobcentres start offering Universal Credit from Durham to Reading
Next stage of Universal Credit rollout begins
21 September, 2015
Universal Credit will be in three-quarters of all jobcentres by Christmas, as the next phase of the national rollout begins today
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 3 September 2015
16 September, 2015
Statistics on Universal Credit claims from 29 April 2013 to 3 September 2015
Universal Credit statistics
16 September, 2015
These official experimental statistics cover total live caseload, starts and claims
Adapting neighbourhood management for Universal Credit
15 September, 2015
In the days of austerity Ashton Pioneer Homes have learned valuable lessons as the first pathfinder for Universal Credit
North East housing provider helping tenants transition to Universal Credit
11 September, 2015
The Governments new welfare system is coming to Teesside and one local housing provider is helping their tenants get to grips with the changes
Universal Credit arrival leads to loan shark warning
09 September, 2015
Ensuring that the perpetrators of illegal money lending do not prey on the most vulnerable in our societies is becoming even more important
The Universal Credit (Work Allowance) Amendment Regulations 2015
08 September, 2015
Draft proposals explaining the policy behind the intended regulatory changes, to the Social Security Advisory Committee
Iain Duncan Smith defends universal credit targets
08 September, 2015
Iain Duncan Smith came under fire regarding the failure to meet universal credit targets in the House of Commons
Work Programme: Universal Credit provider guidance
04 September, 2015
This guidance is for DWP Work Programme providers working with Universal Credit claimants
Universal credit pathfinders in devolution call
19 August, 2015
Two Greater Manchester authorities that piloted the government's universal credit regime are calling for greater control over key parts of the revamped welfare state
Universal Credit 'could make Scots carers worse off'
18 August, 2015
Family carers for vulnerable children in Scotland are likely to be left worse off under Universal Credit
Universal Credit national expansion tranches 3 and 4
14 August, 2015
Local authorities and jobcentre areas that will begin to deliver Universal Credit as part of national expansion during 2015 and 2016
Universal Credit payment revamp 'could help 700,000 households'
13 August, 2015
New powers to make changes over how Universal Credit is paid will eventually affect over 700,000 households across the country, according to the Scottish Government
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 30 July 2015
12 August, 2015
Statistics on Universal Credit claims from 29 April 2013 to 30 July 2015
Universal Credit and rented housing - frequently asked questions
11 August, 2015
This document provides private and social sector landlords with up to date information on Universal Credit
Universal Credit: Concerns those on benefits won't cope with monthly budgeting
11 August, 2015
"They'll have to pay their rent themselves, pay bills and budget for food. We know that we'll have more people coming in here,"
Tenants plunge further into poverty as council rent arrears rise
07 August, 2015
There are warning signs that people in West Dunbartonshire are falling further into poverty as rent arrears continue to rise at the local authority
Stricter Universal Credit rules could affect half of Britain's children
31 July, 2015
Britain's welfare system is undergoing huge change, and cuts are coming too. Here's what's planned - and how it could affect working families
Councils 'frustrated' by DWP's 'lack of clarity' over Universal Credit
23 July, 2015
A lack of "clear information" from the DWP is preventing councils from properly preparing for the switch to Universal Credit
Universal Credit national expansion - Tranches Three and Four
23 July, 2015
On 16 February 2015 the DWP began the national expansion of Universal Credit to the remaining areas across Great Britain
Universal Credit: Index of Relevant Districts
21 July, 2015
Local authorities and jobcentre areas that will begin to deliver Universal Credit as part of national expansion during 2015 and 2016
Findings from the local authority insight survey wave 28: Universal Credit
21 July, 2015
This research presents findings from wave 28 of the local authority insight survey. It looks at preparations for Universal Credit
Universal credit staff in strike action over conditions
20 July, 2015
DWP staff in Glasgow and Bolton are taking part in a 48-hour strike in a dispute over the delivery of benefits changes
Universal Credit: Index of Relevant Districts
20 July, 2015
Local authorities and jobcentre areas that will begin to deliver Universal Credit as part of national expansion during 2015 and 2016
A Budget for workers?
16 July, 2015
The impact of the Summer Budget on work incentives in Universal Credit
Universal Credit staff in Bolton set to strike next week over 'oppressive' working conditions
16 July, 2015
Staff in Bolton working on the Government's flagship Universal Credit programme are set to strike for two days next week over claims of 'increasingly oppressive' working conditions
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 2 July 2015
15 July, 2015
Statistics on Universal Credit claims from 29 April 2013 to 2 July 2015
LHA landlords to be able to request direct payment by email
15 July, 2015
A new facility to enable Landlords to email Alternative Payment Arrangement applications to Universal Credit will be available from 15th July 2015
Universal Credit in 14 more Jobcentres in London, Cornwall and Wales
14 July, 2015
Today 14 more Jobcentres start offering Universal Credit - the new benefit that makes work always pay
Welfare Reform and Work Bill published
09 July, 2015
Following the announcement made in the Chancellor's speech on the Summer Budget, the Government has published the Welfare Reform and Work Bill
Universal Credit staff vote to strike over 'inadequate' IT systems
08 July, 2015
Employees at centres in Glasgow and Bolton say they face an 'increasingly oppressive working environment'
Universal Credit Rollout - Map
30 June, 2015
This map shows the Jobcentre Plus offices where you can now claim Universal Credit
Labour says universal credit will take 495 years to roll out as costs rise £3bn
26 June, 2015
Cost of IDS's troubled plan for benefits rises to £15.8bn as Major Projects Authority report reveals HS2 also among schemes at high risk of failing
Universal Credit in 10 more Jobcentres across England, Scotland and Wales
23 June, 2015
Today, 10 more Jobcentres start offering Universal Credit in Scotland, Wales, Nottinghamshire, Suffolk, Hertfordshire and the Black Country
Welfare reform update - June 2015
19 June, 2015
Includes our submission to the emergency Budget, new seven-day waiting period for Universal Credit and details of new reports on welfare reform
Universal Credit: Apr 2013 to 28 May 2015
17 June, 2015
Statistics on Universal Credit claims from 29 April 2013 to 28 May 2015
Why Universal Credit could lead to even more sanctions
16 June, 2015
Benefit sanction rates are already at record levels
Universal Credit comes to Lewes and Newhaven
16 June, 2015
Benefit claimants in Lewes, Newhaven and Eastbourne are now able to receive Universal Credit at their local Jobcentre
Universal Credit now available at 6 more Jobcentres in Cornwall and Newcastle
15 June, 2015
Today Universal Credit is available to more people in 6 more Jobcentres across the country and will make sure work always pays
Kingdom provides advice for Fife tenants on Universal Credit changes
15 June, 2015
Over eighty Fife tenants have attended events in Dunfermline and Glenrothes to receive support and advice on the forthcoming implementation of Universal Credit
The government is quietly making a U-turn on universal credit
12 June, 2015
A small but significant concession to the controversial system is being tested in Oldham. Perhaps the government is finally noticing the warning signs
Private landlords claim they face discrimination when it comes to Universal Credit protections
12 June, 2015
The Government has been accused of discriminating against private landlords when it comes to the roll-out of its Universal Credit benefit reform
Universal Credit: rent arrears form UC47
11 June, 2015
These guides explain what Universal Credit means for landlords, local authorities and tenants
The Universal Credit (Waiting Days) (Amendment) Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015 No. 1362): SSAC report
11 June, 2015
A SSAC report on the Universal Credit (Waiting Days) Amendment Regulations 2015. It includes a government statement
Universal Credit information for claimants in Croydon and Sutton
10 June, 2015
Universal Credit in the CR0 4 postcode area of Croydon and SM5 2, SM6 7, SM6 8 and SM6 9 postcode areas of Sutton
14% of adults permanently offline, despite online benefits
09 June, 2015
14% of adults surveyed don't use the internet at all, despite the benefits that being online can bring
Working families could become 'second-class savers' under universal credit
09 June, 2015
Working families moving onto universal credit could become "second-class savers", with any money put aside potentially counting against their benefit entitlement
Making the most of UC: Final report of the Resolution Foundation review of Universal Credit
08 June, 2015
The improvements necessary to enable UC to, at a minimum, make work pay and smooth the transition into work must be made before millions of families are moved onto the new system
The Guardian view on universal credit: needs more work
08 June, 2015
The Resolution Foundation has carried out an important analysis of his biggest reform of the welfare system
'Reboot' universal credit, ministers urged
08 June, 2015
Hundreds of thousands more women would be helped into work if the government "rebooted" its flagship welfare reforms
Universal Credit now available at 50% of all Scottish Jobcentres from today
08 June, 2015
All Glasgow Jobcentres now offer Universal Credit, with the new benefit that makes work always pay, available to all new single claimants
Credit where it's due? How to reform and make the most out of Universal Credit
08 June, 2015
There are some issues where a little bit of knowledge, and a lot of bluster, are all that's needed for a politician - whether government or opposition - to get through a standard media grilling
Help with budgeting your Universal Credit
05 June, 2015
This guide gives details on how Universal Credit is paid and the budgeting support available through DWP and other organisations
Universal Credit and self-employment: quick guide
05 June, 2015
The support offered by Universal Credit to help claimants start their own business and what will be expected of them in return
Universal Credit and improving your skills for work
05 June, 2015
How Universal Credit can help claimants to find work by supporting them in improving their skills
Application for third party deductions: Universal Credit
04 June, 2015
This form can be used by a creditor to request a third party deduction from a Universal Credit claimant
Universal Credit and rented housing - frequently asked questions
02 June, 2015
This document provides private and social sector landlords with up to date information on Universal Credit
New scheme to get Kirklees tenants online
02 June, 2015
A new project to help people get online has officially been launched in two areas of Kirklees this week
Universal Credit now available at 15 more Jobcentres
01 June, 2015
Universal Credit is now available to more people at 15 more Jobcentres across the country and will make sure work always pays
Spectrum takes important steps to prepare for Universal Credit with Who's Home
29 May, 2015
Housing Partners has entered into partnership with Spectrum Housing Group for delivery of the Who's Home service
Universal Credit case studies wanted
28 May, 2015
Nine Lives Media are making another Channel 4 Dispatches about benefit changes, and are focussing on how people who are in work and on benefits are being affected
Universal Credit now available in more Scottish towns
26 May, 2015
Universal Credit arrives in Banff, Fraserburgh, Peterhead, Falkirk, Grangemouth, Stirling and Alloa. Learn about how it can benefit you
Welfare reform update - May 2015
22 May, 2015
Includes how we are responding to the Government's potential welfare reforms, changes to the Universal Credit process and the introduction of a seven-day waiting period on Universal Credit claims
Universal Credit Q&A;
21 May, 2015
Summary of questions raised and discussed at the Federation's welfare reform member events Spring 2015
Seven ways social landlords can prepare for universal credit
19 May, 2015
Sanctuary Housing took part in pilot tests for the government's new benefits payment system. Here are its tips on preparing for the changeover
Universal Credit videos
18 May, 2015
These explain how Universal Credit works and how it supports claimants in getting back to work
Iain Duncan Smith gets more time to rescue the loathed universal credit
15 May, 2015
Despite the warnings, delays and write-offs, the work and pensions secretary survives to deliver this shambolic reform
How will Universal Credit make work pay?
15 May, 2015
An illustrated guide to how Universal Credit makes work pay
Graph showing how Universal Credit helps make work pay
15 May, 2015
A graph showing how Universal Credit helps make work pay
Universal Credit: Apr 2013 to May 2015
13 May, 2015
Statistics on Universal Credit claims from 29 April 2013 to 7 May 2015
Universal Credit roll out continues
12 May, 2015
The national roll out of Universal Credit continues with the benefit now available to new single claimants in Richmond, Kirkwall, Lerwick and Stornoway
Universal Credit welcome guide
11 May, 2015
An introduction to Universal Credit, including how it works and how it tops up your earnings to help make work pay
Five proactive things you can do to offset the impact of universal credit
06 May, 2015
Housing professionals are working proactively to counteract the changes brought about by universal credit before migration moves tenants onto the benefit
Housing Benefit for supported housing
01 May, 2015
Changes introduced by the Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Supported Housing) (Amendment) Regulations 2014
Universal Credit rolls out in region
30 April, 2015
Only a small number of people in the Borders will be affected by this week's initial rollout of Universal Credit in the area
The latest universal credit figures are an embarrassment for the Tories
20 April, 2015
Department of Work and Pensions published their latest figures for the number of people claiming universal credit
Don't trip up: six things to watch out for with universal credit
20 April, 2015
The introduction of universal credit means big changes for social landlords and tenants
What future for Universal Credit?
20 April, 2015
Universal Credit can't reduce poverty on its own, says Chris Goulden
Universal Credit: rent arrears form
17 April, 2015
These guides explain what Universal Credit means for landlords, local authorities and tenants
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 9 Apr 2015
17 April, 2015
Statistics on Universal Credit claims from 29 April 2013 to 9 April 2015
Universal Credit: the fantasy of a tidy world
16 April, 2015
The coalition presents its benefit reforms as fair, rational and efficient
Where will Cameron make his next cuts?
16 April, 2015
David Cameron struggled with questions on food banks when asked
Benefits payment change leads to drug war in Dumfries
15 April, 2015
Mark Frankland from First Base says drug gangs are aiming to cash in by trapping users in a spiral of debt
Labour manifesto confirms 'pause' on Universal Credit
13 April, 2015
The Labour Party's manifesto, unveiled this morning, has confirmed that the party plans to take stock of Universal Credit
SNP fails to account for billions in welfare and pensions pledge
10 April, 2015
Thinktank says cost of key promises not clear in Sturgeon's plan to raise UK public spending and lower increases would be required - or tax rises
Wheatley Group helps tenants receive £12m in unclaimed benefits
10 April, 2015
Wheatley Group has helped tenants access £12 million in unclaimed benefits in just over two years
Salmond backs SFHA's call on Universal Credit at housing hustings
09 April, 2015
Alex Salmond has backed calls by the SFHA to suspend the roll-out of Universal Credit in Scotland
George Osborne refuses to rule out child benefit cuts
08 April, 2015
Chancellor refuses to say he will not roll child benefits into the Universal Credit system, in a move that would deny 4.3 million households the payments
Eight top tips for dealing with universal credit
08 April, 2015
The introduction of universal credit brings many changes for social landlords and tenants
The language of universal credit
30 March, 2015
Universal credit brings with it new terminology which housing professionals will need to understand so they can work effectively with tenants
Universal Credit welcome guide
27 March, 2015
An introduction to Universal Credit, including how it works and how it tops up your earnings to help make work pay
Cities raise concerns at speed of universal credit rollout
27 March, 2015
Concerns have been raised about the speed of the national rollout of universal credit to two major cities
Social landlords express concern at Universal Credit roll-out
26 March, 2015
A conference took place yesterday in the Corn Exchange, Edinburgh, at the invitation of the DWP
Universal Credit and employers: frequently asked questions
26 March, 2015
This guidance explains what Universal Credit will mean for employers and their employees
Universal Credit: how it helps your employees and workers
25 March, 2015
Universal Credit is a new benefit that supports people who are on a low income or out of work
Universal Credit for HR and payroll staff
25 March, 2015
Universal Credit helps people on a low wage by topping up their earnings, it's based on income and not hours
Unemployment down in Halton says DWP
23 March, 2015
Jobcentre Plus stresses that jobseekers will not be sanctioned for refusing zero-hour contracts as benefits begin switch to Universal Credit
Iain Duncan Smith's universal credit: bad for landlords, worse for tenants
20 March, 2015
Iain Duncan Smith's universal credit is bad news for tenants and landlords alike - and I should know
Universal Credit at risk of collapse?
20 March, 2015
The flagship welfare reform has recently been described as "in meltdown" by its own staff
Universal Credit waiting days: statement from Paul Gray
19 March, 2015
Paul Gray provides an update on the committee's consultation on the introduction of Universal Credit waiting days
An introduction to Universal Credit
18 March, 2015
Information for people claiming Universal Credit in Sutton
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 12 Mar 2015
18 March, 2015
This summary contains statistics on Universal Credit claims from 29 April 2013 to 12 March 2015
Third Party Payments Creditor/Supplier Handbook
12 March, 2015
The aim of this handbook is to provide an overview of how the Third Party Deductions Scheme works for organisations and individuals who receive Third Party Payments
Coalition Britain: after the teething problems, will universal credit work?
11 March, 2015
Supporters of the coalition's flagship welfare reform programme are buoyant but some question the services efficiency.
Credit where it's due? Assessing the benefits and risks of Universal Credit
10 March, 2015
The government's plans for Universal Credit were first set out in November 2025, and its concept has received broad cross-party support
'Universal credit is an unmitigated failure'
10 March, 2015
The Tory-led coalition's oft-bungled universal credit (UC) system has been blasted as an "unmitigated failure"
IDS furious as Reeves taunts him over 1,605-year roll-out plan for universal credit
10 March, 2015
The full roll out of universal credit will now take 1,605 years based on the latest estimates, the Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary has told the House of Commons
EU jobseekers barred from claiming Universal Credit
09 March, 2015
New EU migrants arriving in the UK will be prevented from claiming universal credit
Universal Credit: entitlement of EEA nationals
09 March, 2015
Correspondence between SSAC and the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions about the entitlement of EEA nationals to Universal Credit
Universal Credit is on the way to Swansea
05 March, 2015
Welfare benefit changes have been high on the poverty and prevention agenda in recent years
NFA briefing on universal credit
05 March, 2015
Ready or not? Preparing for Universal Credit national roll out
Universal Credit rolled out to tackle East End's benefit-capped unemployed
04 March, 2015
The government's much-criticised "making work pay" Universal Credit has arrived at Jobcentres in London's deprived East End
Getting Universal Credit ready is sometimes about changing lives
03 March, 2015
As you all know Universal Credit is coming. In preparation for its roll out in Cornwall this May we set up a pilot project on one of our estates in Bodmin
Special event to help landlords deal with tenant money problems after benefits change
03 March, 2015
A special event is being staged for landlords to help them deal with tenants with money problems following changes to the benefits system
The Universal Credit (Surpluses and Self-employed Losses) (Digital Service) Amendment Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015 No.345): SSAC report
26 February, 2015
This report is about 'surplus earnings' and 'self-employed losses' in Universal Credit. It includes a government statement
Who uses the Universal Credit system? Almost nobody
26 February, 2015
Analyst: It'll take just 120 years to complete
DWP awards two-year Universal Credit hosting contract to SCC
26 February, 2015
The DWP has signed a hosting partnership with SCC, Europe's largest independent technology solutions company, in order to push ahead with Universal Credit
'Very little progress' on universal credit
25 February, 2015
"Very little progress" has been made on the universal credit scheme despite its £700m cost to date
Universal Credit: progress update
25 February, 2015
Here you can browse the report together with the Proceedings of the Committee
How the deductions from benefit scheme works: a handbook for creditors or suppliers
25 February, 2015
Guidance for creditors or suppliers - for example, utility suppliers and landlords - on how the deductions from benefit scheme works
New universal credit benefits system to start in Basildon next month
24 February, 2015
The first rollout of a new benefits system will go live in Basildon next month
Welfare reform: proof that you can get away with failure if it's boring and it doesn't affect People Like Us
23 February, 2015
Don't believe the hype about the rollout of universal credit and how the Tories are finally "making work pay"
Universal Credit - monthly experimental official statistics to February 2015
20 February, 2015
Universal Credit is a new benefit which aims to reduce poverty, by making work pay, and to help claimants and their families to become more independent
Universal credit changes 'raise domestic abuse fears'
19 February, 2015
The government's flagship welfare scheme could leave women vulnerable to domestic abuse, a parliamentary watchdog says
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 12 Feb 2015
18 February, 2015
This summary contains statistics on Universal Credit claims from 29 April 2013 to 12 February 2015
Universal credit 'a nightmare', says claimant who advertised welfare reform
17 February, 2015
A claimant who featured in a Government film about universal-credit said it is riddled with computer problems and could push people into hardship
Beyond the Universal Credit headlines: what IDS doesn't say
17 February, 2015
The "good news" headlines over the weekend suggest that Universal Credit is finally rolling out nationally, the implementation problems having been ironed out
Universal credit
17 February, 2015
Mike talks about the Universal Credit which has been piloted in Ashton and asks how you make ends meet if you are on benefits
Universal Credit Expanded Gateway Singles Survey
17 February, 2015
Wave 1 interim findings on attitudes, behaviour and early labour market outcomes
Universal Credit Scheme Is Helping According To Iain Duncan Smith
16 February, 2015
Iain Duncan Smith has defended his flagship Universal Credit scheme, insisting evidence shows it is helping people find work quicker and earn more
With Universal Credit, work might finally pay
16 February, 2015
It's been a long time coming, but Iain Duncan Smith's attempt to streamline the benefits system might finally be bearing fruit
Estimating the early labour market impacts of Universal Credit
16 February, 2015
This paper summarises early results from a ground-breaking, early analysis of the impact of UC using new data on employed status from HMRC
Q&A;: Universal credit and the benefits overhaul
16 February, 2015
The introduction of the government's flagship universal credit payment marks the biggest overhaul of the benefits system since the 1940s
Iain Duncan-Smith: Universal Credit is £600m under budget
16 February, 2015
The new benefit - universal credit - is to be introduced across the country from tomorrow after delays caused by computer problems
How Universal Credit helps make work pay
16 February, 2015
A guide to how Universal Credit can support people in work by topping up their earnings
Universal Credit makes work pay
16 February, 2015
16 February 2015 the national roll out of Universal Credit begins
Universal Credit at work: spring 2015
16 February, 2015
Progress reports on the implementation of Universal Credit: how we are restoring work incentives, renewing fairness and transforming lives
Universal Credit claimant survey: Nov to Dec 2014 interim findings
16 February, 2015
This paper examines claimants' attitudes to Universal Credit, their behaviour and labour market outcomes
Budgeting your Universal Credit
16 February, 2015
How Universal Credit changes the way that benefits are paid and some tips on how to manage a monthly budget
How will Universal Credit make work pay?
13 February, 2015
An illustrated guide to how Universal Credit makes work pay
An introduction to Universal Credit
13 February, 2015
Universal Credit is a new benefit that supports people who are on a low income or out of work
DWP rejects call by civic Scotland to suspend roll-out of Universal Credit
12 February, 2015
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has rejected the call by civic Scotland to immediately suspend the roll-out of Universal Credit
Against all odds, a welfare revolution is quietly under way
11 February, 2015
Universal Credit was going nowhere until a chance discovery gave it fresh momentum. Now it could finally be the radical welfare reform which lasts
Welfare reform bill: Five schemes to provide financial support
11 February, 2015
Five new schemes are being developed to provide financial support for people who would lose money due to welfare changes in Northern Ireland
No one will be out of pocket over new welfare system
11 February, 2015
No Northern Ireland household will be worse off as a result of the introduction of Universal Credit
Universal Credit videos
11 February, 2015
These explain how Universal Credit works and how it supports claimants in getting back to work
Direct Payment of Housing Benefit: Are Social Landlords Ready?
10 February, 2015
This summary presents the key findings of a survey of social landlords in England, Scotland and Wales
Further devolution of powers to Scotland: Universal Credit housing element and payment arrangements
10 February, 2015
This note explains the Smith Commission's proposals and the Draft Scotland Clauses in relation to Universal Credit
Universal Credit: Index of Relevant Districts
10 February, 2015
Local authorities and jobcentre areas that will begin to deliver Universal Credit between February and July 2015, and affected postcodes
DWP announce 25% cut in DHP funding 2015-16
09 February, 2015
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) recently announced the discretionary housing payments budget for 2015/16
Universal Credit Debate
06 February, 2015
Recorded coverage of the debate in the House of Lords on the review into the setting of Universal Credit conditionality when children are in distress
250 homes to take part in universal credit impact pilot
05 February, 2015
Around 250 households in West Yorkshire are taking part in a pilot scheme to gauge the impact of universal credit
HB Direct issue 156
04 February, 2015
This HB Direct brings news of significant developments in Universal Credit
Government and Labour trade accusations and insults over Universal Credit progress
03 February, 2015
The political battle over the future of Universal Credit is heating up as the general election approaches
Gov dodged scrutiny of Universal Credit
03 February, 2015
The damage coalition cuts and bodge have done to Universal Credit was omitted from the National Audit Office assessment of the scheme in November
Personal Budgeting Support and Alternative Payment Arrangements
02 February, 2015
Universal Credit prepares claimants for the world of work in which 75 per cent of employees are paid monthly
Expected Universal Credit Relevant Districts / LA Areas (by Apr 2015)
29 January, 2015
The map show the expected areas where Universal Credit can be claimed by the end of April 2015 (filtered by claimant group)
Universal Credit costs will not be revealed until after general election
29 January, 2015
The government will not reveal the full cost of its troubled Universal Credit system until after the general election in May 2015
Members share experiences of adapting to Universal Credit
28 January, 2015
Universal Credit has been live in areas of the North West for over a year now
Benefit cap 'encouraging work' says PM
27 January, 2015
David Cameron has defended Conservative plans to reduce the annual benefits cap from £26,000 to £23,000 if they remain in power after the election
£1 million in extra funding for tenants secured by housing association
27 January, 2015
One of London's largest housing associations has managed to secure £1 million in additional benefit income for its tenants over the past two years
The Social Security (Information-sharing in relation to Welfare Services etc.) (Amendment) Regulations 2015
27 January, 2015
These Regulations amend the Social Security (Information-sharing in relation to Welfare Services etc.) Regulations 2012 ("the principal Regulations")
How Together Housing Group are preparing for Universal Credit
27 January, 2015
Housing benefit is 40% of our income - Universal Credit puts at risk £9 million of previously guaranteed income
Why universal credit means a step change for housing associations
26 January, 2015
There's a lot about universal credit that is welcome - replacing six different benefits which have differing rules and payment arrangements with one as an example
Welfare transformation comes to families in more areas
26 January, 2015
Universal Credit will be available to families in more areas across the country, from today
Jobcentre areas where you can claim Universal Credit
26 January, 2015
Universal Credit is being introduced in stages. You may be able to claim Universal Credit if you live in certain parts of the UK
Universal Credit - monthly experimental official statistics to January 2015
26 January, 2015
Universal Credit is a new benefit which aims to reduce poverty, by making work pay, and to help claimants and their families to become more independent
SFHA calls on Prime Minister to delay roll-out of Universal Credit at launch of Draft Clauses
23 January, 2015
At the launch event for the Draft Clauses for further powers for Scotland, Mary Taylor, asked the Prime Minister to consider suspending the roll-out of Universal Credit
Universal Credit data sharing between DWP and local support providers
23 January, 2015
Having carefully considered responses, we intend to continue as stated in the consultation documents and lay regulations on 23 January 2015, which will come into force on 13 February 2015
Universal Credit national expansion - Tranche two
23 January, 2015
In the jobcentre areas listed here, Universal Credit will roll out to new claims from single people who would otherwise have been eligible for Jobseeker's Allowance
Universal Credit and Universal Support
22 January, 2015
Lord Freud's, Minister for Welfare Reform, speech to the Local Government Association (LGA) about Universal Credit and Universal Support
Digital inclusion in housing? Try looking closer to home
19 January, 2015
There is no shortage of excellent digital inclusion work being done
Welfare reform update January 2015
16 January, 2015
Includes details of Universal Credit Week, welfare reform research and the latest on data sharing
Universal Credit data sharing with local support providers: a consultation on draft regulations
15 January, 2015
The Department for Work and Pensions is consulting on a second set of regulations for Universal Credit, looking at Universal Support
Digital inclusion - Staying online
14 January, 2015
Rapid changes in digital technology pose challenges for tenants and landlords alike. Louise Kingdon asks how the social housing sector should respond
Letter urges IDS to suspend universal credit
12 January, 2015
An open letter signed by nearly 60 civic organisations from across Scotland has been sent to work and pensions secretary Iain Duncan Smith
Connected Housing Initiative speaks out on the fight against digital exclusion
12 January, 2015
'Work with Internet providers to develop affordable, flexible home internet for the digitally excluded' says Housing Association lobby group, CIH
Universal Credit - is it worth it?
09 January, 2015
In November 2025 the government published Universal Credit: welfare that works, which set out proposals for a radical shake-up of benefits and tax credits for people of working age
Ageing-tech expert sought by DWP
09 January, 2015
The government is seeking an expert in systems that are more than 40 years old to revamp technology used by the Department for Work and Pensions
allpay welcomes government extension of Post Office Card Account
07 January, 2015
Payment specialist allpay has welcomed a seven-year extension of the Post Office Card Account
Andrew Dunn of the University of Lincoln discusses research on jobseekers' attitudes to employment
07 January, 2015
The coalition's increased use of conditionality for claimants of JSA is part of a policy trend that is underpinned by politicians' belief that many people prefer benefits to employment
Will universal credit be successfully rolled out in 2015?
06 January, 2015
This month we asked two experts if universal credit will fare well in 2015
Public wi-fi won't lift poorest out of digital exclusion - charity boss
06 January, 2015
Providing internet access in public places will not help the 20% of UK consumers who aren't online, the head of a digital skills charity has said
Iain Duncan Smith to accelerate benefit reforms to stop Labour reversing them
05 January, 2015
Benefits reform will be one of the key battlegrounds at May's general election and the suggestion that Mr Duncan Smith wants to bed in fully his benefit reforms will infuriate Labour
Universal Credit now at Frome jobcentre
05 January, 2015
Frome Jobcentre is one of 150 Jobcentres around the country that will start taking Universal Credit claims for the first time from February
WP174 provider memo: job outcome claims with Universal Credit interest
31 December, 2014
Work Programme provider memo WP174 about job outcome and sustained job outcome claims with Universal Credit interest
Red tape regime as 600,000 self-employed must fill in tax form every MONTH
31 December, 2014
The Tories' controversial Universal Credit system will force 600,000 of those who get in-work benefits to submit fresh accounts to the Government every month
Universal credit to change the way Burnham and Highbridge jobless claim benefits in the New Year
29 December, 2014
Universal credit to change the way Bridgwater jobless claim benefits in the New Year
Direct Payment Demonstration Projects: The longitudinal survey of tenants
19 December, 2014
This report is one of a series of outputs from the evaluation of the Direct Payment Demonstration Projects
Graph showing how Universal Credit helps make work pay
18 December, 2014
A graph showing how Universal Credit helps make work pay
Universal Credit employers' insight
18 December, 2014
Qualitative research with employers to help inform the design and implementation of Universal Credit
Direct Payment Demonstration Projects: Key findings of the programme evaluation
18 December, 2014
Final report
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 11 Dec 2014
17 December, 2014
Official experimental Universal Credit statistics and how the department will manage the release of further statistics
Iain Duncan Smith on Universal Credit introduction
16 December, 2014
One in three job centres will be using Universal Credit by the spring of 2015, and "pretty much everybody" on it by 2019
A united view on universal credit
12 December, 2014
The independence of families relies on the successful roll-out of universal credit, argues Lord David Freud
Universal credit: Treasury still to sign off business case
11 December, 2014
Treasury spokeswoman tells MPs money spent so far is 'value for money' despite tens of millions being written off in IT
Universal Credit and employers: frequently asked questions
11 December, 2014
This guidance explains what Universal Credit will mean for employers and their employees
Universal Credit data sharing between DWP and local support providers
10 December, 2014
The DWP are seeking views on data sharing between DWP and local support providers
Universal Credit: increasing the childcare offer
09 December, 2014
Report on increasing the Universal Credit childcare offer and how it will interact with Tax-Free Childcare
Universal Credit national expansion
09 December, 2014
List of the local authorities and jobcentres that will begin to deliver Universal Credit between February and April 2015
Social landlords 'downgrading welfare reform as a risk'
05 December, 2014
Social landlords are downgrading the threat posed by welfare reform in their business plans, following delays with the implementation of universal credit
Iain Duncan Smith's Universal Credit Set For Even More Delays
05 December, 2014
Iain Duncan Smith's much-delayed welfare project, Universal Credit, is set to take even longer to roll out across the country
Personal taxes and benefits
05 December, 2014
Presentation given at the 'Autumn Statement 2014: IFS analysis' event on 4 December 2014
George Osborne accused of putting universal credit in 'very real danger'
04 December, 2014
George Osborne was today accused of putting universal credit in "very real danger" after freezing work allowances under the new benefits system for a further year to 2018
Delays to welfare reform boost Treasury coffers
04 December, 2014
Delays in implementing universal credit will save the government more than £900 million in the next parliament through reduced payments and administrative savings
Scotland could re-introduce direct payments to landlords
03 December, 2014
The Scottish government is considering changing universal credit rules to allow housing costs to be paid directly to landlords
Iain Duncan Smith vetoed greater Scottish powers over universal credit
01 December, 2014
Holyrood allowed to vary key parts of housing elements of universal credit but not other elements after DWP intervention
Universal Credit information for claimants in Sutton
28 November, 2014
Additional information for people claiming Universal Credit in the SM5 2 postcode area of Sutton
SFHA says Smith Report is step in the right direction and makes urgent call for Universal Credit roll-out to be suspended
28 November, 2014
The SFHA gives a guarded welcome to the report published today by the Smith Commission recommending furthers powers for the Scottish Parliament
Smith Commission 'dropped welfare proposals'
28 November, 2014
Plans to give Holyrood more extensive welfare powers appear to have been struck out of the Smith Commission's report in the final days of negotiations
Universal credit: Now UK's banks turn on coalition over free bank account plan
28 November, 2014
Some of the UK's largest banks have balked at the Tory-led coalition's proposal to force them to set-up free current accounts for UC claimants
A challenging time - supporting customers with money management
28 November, 2014
Welfare reform has presented a number of challenges to housing associations and their customers, and minimising the risks presented, continues to be a focus
Scotland to control £14bn of income tax and welfare benefits in cross-party deal
28 November, 2014
Lord Smith describes agreement as 'biggest transfer of powers to the Scottish parliament since its establishment'
Universal credit eligibility guide for families makes a mockery of IDS claims
27 November, 2014
The government this week hailed the next stage in its "welfare revolution" as universal credit is made available to families for the first time
Iain Duncan Smith accused of 'burying' further delays to universal credit
27 November, 2014
Iain Duncan Smith has been accused of "burying" further delays to the roll out of universal credit
The Smith Commission
27 November, 2014
Report of the Smith Commission for further devolution of powers to the Scottish Parliament
Universal Credit: Watchdog warns of cost of further delays
26 November, 2014
Ministers risk racking up a multi-billion pound bill if IT systems to run their flagship benefits reforms are not introduced on time
Universal Credit: progress update
26 November, 2014
The DWP has reset Universal Credit on a sounder basis but at significant cost, by extending the time for implementation and choosing a more expensive approach
Universal Credit personal budgeting support and alternative payment arrangements guidance
25 November, 2014
Universal Credit prepares claimants for the world of work in which 75 per cent of employees are paid monthly
Universal Credit frequently asked questions
25 November, 2014
Answers to some common questions about Universal Credit and how it will work
Making your Universal Credit claim
25 November, 2014
A guide that describes who can claim Universal Credit and what they will need to do in return, including attending appointments and looking for work
Universal Credit and your Claimant Commitment
25 November, 2014
How the Universal Credit Claimant Commitment works and what is expected of claimants in return for getting Universal Credit
Universal Credit and work
25 November, 2014
How Universal Credit supports claimants in looking for work and what happens when they start a part-time or full-time job
Universal Credit: your claim journey
25 November, 2014
An overview of the steps that people will take when claiming Universal Credit, from making a claim through to starting work
Welfare revolution rolls out to families: Universal Credit to be in a third of Jobcentres by spring
25 November, 2014
By spring 2015, 1 in 3 of the country's Jobcentres will be taking claims for Universal Credit
Duncan Smith rejects claims of Universal Credit's 'glacial pace'
25 November, 2014
Iain Duncan Smith told MPs Universal Credit would bring £35bn in economic benefits to the UK - as Labour attacked the "glacial pace" of its roll out
HAs fearful of sudden universal credit influx
25 November, 2014
Thirty North West housing associations have expressed fears of a sudden New Year-influx of new claimants of the government's troubled universal credit
There's more to reducing poverty than Universal Credit
25 November, 2014
Universal Credit must be made to work. But it can't lower poverty unless it is part of a comprehensive anti-poverty strategy
Universal Credit and tax credits
24 November, 2014
An overview of how people who are claiming tax credits might be affected by Universal Credit
Universal Credit: support if you are dependent on drugs or alcohol
24 November, 2014
How Universal Credit can be tailored to support a claimant if they are dependent on drugs and/or alcohol
Help with budgeting your Universal Credit
24 November, 2014
This guide gives details on how Universal Credit is paid and the budgeting support available through DWP and other organisations
Scale of arrears clawback plan sparks fears
21 November, 2014
Government-enforced changes to how landlords recoup rent arrears under universal credit could force tenants into the arms of loan sharks, housing associations have warned
Bad news for job seekers
21 November, 2014
Your warmly welcomed headline "People power saves our town's jobcentre" does not tell the whole story
Nine local authorities in first wave of accelerated Universal Credit roll-out
20 November, 2014
Nine Scottish local authorities are among the 77 councils identified for the first wave of the accelerated Universal Credit roll-out
Universal credit: The 20% deduction explained
14 November, 2014
The DWP has just published a compendium of the most recent reports, relating to the development and implementation of universal credit
Figures reveal slow take up of universal credit
13 November, 2014
Only 20,540 claimants started on universal credit between April 2013 and October 2014
DWP could pay 20% of universal credit directly to landlords in arrears cases
13 November, 2014
Tenants in receipt of universal credit who fall into arrears will see up to 20% of their monthly payment diverted directly to their landlord
Universal Credit support boost for social landlords
13 November, 2014
A support pack has been designed to give social landlords practical advice on how to ensure their tenants are prepared for Universal Credit
Social landlord support pack
13 November, 2014
This guide explain what Universal Credit means for local authorities and tenants
How Universal Credit supports families
13 November, 2014
Illustrated guide showing the support Universal Credit provides to families and what is expected of them in return
Universal Credit: claimant journey for families
13 November, 2014
Illustrated guides to the steps that people will take when making a Universal Credit claim as a family
Universal Credit and families: questions and answers
13 November, 2014
This guide explains what Universal Credit will mean for families who make a Universal Credit claim
Iain Duncan Smith's Universal Credit system thrown into doubt by Government findings
12 November, 2014
The scheme would have to deal with 1.6million changes per month to people's claims, and has been dogged by delays and glitches so far
Universal Credit: 29 Apr 2013 to 6 Nov 2014
12 November, 2014
Universal Credit statistics including the number of claims made up to 6 Nov 2014, starts to 9 Oct 2014 and total caseload at 9 Oct 2014
Nicola Sturgeon promises 'strong focus' on inequality
11 November, 2014
Nicola Sturgeon has promised to lead a government with a "sharp focus" on tackling inequality when she becomes first minister
Iain Duncan Smith accused of benefits cover-up over Universal Credit cash
10 November, 2014
The Work and Pensions Secretary told MPs "no money has been wasted" as he rolls most working age benefits into one - Labour branded this a lie
Tories plan to deny EU migrants out-of-work benefits under universal credit
07 November, 2014
Ministers believe unified system will be exempt from rule that labour-market benefits must be available to all EU workers
Universal Credit - an overview
06 November, 2014
This briefing provides an introduction to the potential issues surrounding Universal Credit
Universal Credit: Government proposal to take account of past earnings in repeat claims
06 November, 2014
Read our submission in response to the consultation on surpluses and self-employed losses under Universal Credit
Stop universal credit and devolve welfare system demand social landlords
05 November, 2014
Scotland's social landlords are calling for all aspects of the welfare system to be devolved and for the roll-out of universal credit to be immediately halted
UK's Universal Credit is too vital to ignore
31 October, 2014
There has been a bit of glee locally that Universal Credit is running into trouble
Leaked universal credit memo shows jobcentre staff struggling with rollout
28 October, 2014
Jobcentre whistleblower tells Dispatches that computerised benefits scheme is 'unworkable, poorly designed and out of date'
Can technology resolve our universal credit headaches?
28 October, 2014
As we continue to prepare for the onset of universal credit, many organisations are naturally looking at the technological solutions in the market place to help them
Jobseeker's Allowance and Universal Credit back to work schemes
27 October, 2014
Guidance about the different back to work schemes available to JSA and Universal Credit claimants
Universal credit is a tale of failure that's still unfolding
27 October, 2014
The wildly over-ambitious timetable, the soaring costs, the human suffering - Iain Duncan Smith's flagship policy has been flagship disaster
Universal Credit: changing the culture of Jobcentre Plus
27 October, 2014
Policy in Practice recently went to see Universal Credit (UC) live in Hammersmith Jobcentre Plus
16% of 'universal credit renters' in arrears after three months
24 October, 2014
Sixteen percent of universal credit claimants who rent a property found themselves in arrears after three months of claiming the new benefit
Why universal credit won't be universal until 2018. At the earliest
23 October, 2014
It's the best of times and worst of times for welfare secretary Iain Duncan Smith
Reasons to be cheerful from Iain Duncan Smith?
23 October, 2014
Borrowing may be up, immigration rising and the number of foreign prisoners stubbornly high
Universal Credit at Work
23 October, 2014
It was four years ago that we published a Government White Paper entitled 'Universal Credit: welfare that works'
Universal credit will be rolled out by 2018
22 October, 2014
Most benefit claimants will have transferred onto the government's universal credit scheme by the end of 2018
Universal Credit: transforming the welfare state
22 October, 2014
People are doing more to find work as Universal Credit begins to help people move into work more quickly
Universal Credit Pathfinder Evaluation
22 October, 2014
This report provides the main findings from the evaluation of the Universal Credit Pathfinder
Comparison of Universal Credit and Jobseeker's Allowance outcomes
22 October, 2014
Analysis of Universal Credit claims to estimate the proportion that would be in receipt of Jobseeker's Allowance at 30 day intervals
Progress Housing Group gets involved with Get Online Week
21 October, 2014
Lancashire-based Progress Housing Group is encouraging its tenants to find out more about the benefits of getting online as part of a national campaign
Helping tenants get online
17 October, 2014
This week, thousands of people across the country are being inspired to get online and see what the internet could do for them
Data Sharing and Universal Credit
17 October, 2014
The DWP consulted on changes that will allow information to be shared with social landlords about Universal Credit claims
Consultation on Universal Credit 'waiting days'
17 October, 2014
The Social Security Advisory Committee is consulting on proposals that certain Universal Credit claimants must wait seven days before they are entitled to benefit
How a jump in Universal Credit statistics was overstated by 25%
16 October, 2014
Counts are now made on the 2nd Thursday each month, meaning that the latest month-on-month increase in caseload was 25% overstated
Sector backs government's universal credit alert plan
16 October, 2014
Housing organisations have broadly welcomed government proposals to alert social landlords when their tenants move on to universal credit
Universal Credit: Apr 2013 to Sep 2014
15 October, 2014
Statistics for April 2013 to September 2014 with breakdowns by Jobcentre Plus office, local authority and parliamentary constituency
'We need answers on universal credit'
15 October, 2014
Latest government figures show that 14,170 people were claiming universal credit by September 11
Do They Know Its Christmas? was released exactly thirty years ago to publicise third world food crisis
14 October, 2014
Severnside Housing has its Digital Den in Meole Brace that is available for everyone to use
IDS confirms Universal Credit rollout plan
14 October, 2014
Universal Credit will be available in all jobcentres from February to new single claimants previously eligible for Jobseekers' Allowance
Iain Duncan Smith's benefits chaos may cost taxpayers £1.25 billion as Universal Credit bill soars
13 October, 2014
The cost of the bunging Tory's benefit reforms would be enough to build four new hospitals, 45 schools or fund 10,000 hospital beds for a year
Plans announced for accelerated rollout of Universal Credit
13 October, 2014
The government has announced that Universal Credit will now be rolled out nationally for new single applicants from February next year
Social housing tenants get bespoke BT internet service
10 October, 2014
Social housing tenants are now able to get access to an internet service specifically designed for them, after the launch of a new system by BT Business
Oldham Universal Credit pilot reveals flaws in Universal Credit causing hardship to tenants
10 October, 2014
A social landlord in one of the Universal Credit pilot areas has highlighted the havoc it's wreaking on tenants' ability to manage their finances
Welfare row: The changes, the cost, and the likely effects
09 October, 2014
The "enhancement of the GB welfare system" which Peter Robinson is urging Sinn Fein to accept was brought to ministers in June last year
HA prepares tenants for 'greatest change to benefits in a generation'
08 October, 2014
A Welsh housing association is taking action to prepare its tenants for the introduction of the government's controversial flagship reform of the benefits system UC
Universal Credit rolled out to 50th North West job centre
08 October, 2014
Universal Credit has been one of the coalition government's most controversial reforms
Universal credit's flaws exposed by tenants as system forces some to pay day lenders
07 October, 2014
A North West housing association has said a survey of its tenants has exposed flaws in the government's universal credit (UC) system
Universal Support - delivered locally: information for local authorities
07 October, 2014
How local authorities and DWP will work together to trial support for Universal Credit claimants: Universal Support - delivered locally
Iain Duncan Smith: 'My mission is to lift people out of poverty and I will not give up'
07 October, 2014
Iain Duncan Smith on his vocation to help the poor, why Britain must get a better deal from the EU and his love of Austen and Eminem
Universal Credit - maximising the 'housing costs' element
06 October, 2014
One of the most common questions we get asked by social landlords is: "How much of the tenant's rent are we likely to receive and when will we receive it?"
Universal credit data sharing will help landlords support social tenants
06 October, 2014
Allpay has welcomed a consultation by the DWP seeking views on sharing UC claimant information with social landlords and local authorities
Universal credit delay call rejected
02 October, 2014
The UK government has rejected a call by Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon to halt the introduction of universal credit in Scotland
Nicola Sturgeon calls for delay to universal credit launch in Scotland
02 October, 2014
Tories and Labour want to devolve powers over housing benefit, which deputy first minister says is in effect being abolished
DWP stakeholder bulletin for national organisations: September 2014
01 October, 2014
Our stakeholder bulletin has news and policy information for chief executives and others in national stakeholder organisations - September 2014
Landlords' bedroom tax prep
01 October, 2014
The members of our welfare reform focus group are preparing for the next round of welfare changes: universal credit
Government to speed up universal credit roll out
30 September, 2014
The government has announced that the roll out of its troubled universal credit (UC) programme is to be accelerated
Number of people making a claim application to Universal Credit
30 September, 2014
The number of people making a claim application to Universal Credit from April 2013 to 11 September 2014
Universal Credit Rollout
30 September, 2014
Watch this short film and find out how Universal Credit is being introduced across the UK
Universal Credit Analysis
29 September, 2014
The current system of working age benefits is confusing and often unreliable
Plans announced for accelerated rollout of Universal Credit after success in north west
29 September, 2014
DWP announce that Universal Credit will be rolled out to all Jobcentres and local authorities across the country from early next year
Jobcentres where you can claim Universal Credit
29 September, 2014
Universal Credit is being introduced in stages. You may be able to claim Universal Credit if you live in certain parts of the UK
Why the self-employed need to wake up to the threat posed by Universal Credit
26 September, 2014
In theory Universal Credit is a dream policy. The idea has been to streamline the welfare system, rolling six means-tested benefits into one so that work will always pay
Calico encourages customers to get online ahead of Universal Credit
26 September, 2014
Calico is giving customers who don't use the internet the opportunity to see for themselves how getting online can make a real difference to their lives
Housing associations rally internet providers to help more residents get online
24 September, 2014
26 housing associations, 12 IT companies and 18 influencers were brought together to discuss how to work together to help more social housing residents get online
Help with Universal Credit
24 September, 2014
Residents are being urged to get in touch with RBH if they need help in adjusting to Universal Credit (UC) as it is rolled out across the borough
Landlord plans own universal credit pilot
23 September, 2014
Coastline Housing is planning its own pilot of universal credit in an attempt to assess the 'real impact' of the flagship benefit reform
Controversial benefits shake-up rolled out to more areas of Greater Manchester
23 September, 2014
Universal Credit, first trialled in Ashton-under-Lyne last year, is now available to jobseekers in Cheetham Hill, Newton Heath and Wythenshawe
Boost for social landlords as DWP consults on missing piece of universal credit jigsaw
22 September, 2014
The Department for Work and Pensions today launched a consultation on one of the key missing pieces of the universal credit jigsaw
Labour in power could abandon universal credit
19 September, 2014
Policy could be dumped within months if it wins election next year
Universal Credit data sharing with social landlords
19 September, 2014
Seeks views on allowing DWP to share information with social landlords to enable them to support tenants claiming Universal Credit
Universal Credit - experimental official statistics to August 2014
17 September, 2014
More than 11,000 households were claiming universal credit last month
LIN Member Report September 2014 - Universal Credit an update & How to work effectively with tenants on UC
16 September, 2014
This LIN member report is written by Rebecca Wilkie
Warning over government IT systems should Scotland vote for independence
15 September, 2014
The IT infrastructure of the entire public sector will be shaken up should Scotland vote for independence
Rebalancing universal credit: Making it work for disabled people
12 September, 2014
This report focuses on support for disabled people under universal credit
Universal Credit: A policy under review
09 September, 2014
Universal Credit represents the most significant transformation of our welfare system, merging six separate out-of and in-work benefits into one
Universal Credit set to be rolled out across West Lancashire
08 September, 2014
Lord David Freud, Minister for Welfare Reform talks to The Advertiser about the impact of the change
Universal credit help scheme trialled
04 September, 2014
Assessments and guidance aim to prevent tenants falling into arrears
Universal credit 'on life-support' as clock ticks down on Treasury funding guarantee
03 September, 2014
Universal credit is on 'life-support' with only 247 days of guaranteed funding left
Universal Credit business case to be signed off 'very shortly'
02 September, 2014
Iain Duncan Smith, is insisting that the business case for the troubled Universal Credit programme is expected "very shortly"
Free childcare for more two-year-olds
28 August, 2014
Hundreds more working families in west Cheshire will be eligible for free childcare for their two-year-olds from September
DWP's new universal credit 'safeguards' include paying the rent itself
27 August, 2014
The Department for Work and Pensions is stepping up its efforts to keep tenant arrears down under universal credit
'Vulnerable people' will be caught up in Universal Credit fiasco warns Oldham MP
27 August, 2014
Debbie Abrahams warns there remains an uncertainty about the Universal credit IT system and the way vulnerable people will be supported with the changed it brings
Benefit reform lands claimants in debt
26 August, 2014
Leaked figures reveal that benefit claimants on the UC system have become mired in debt, forcing the government to step in to pay their rent
Poor families wave goodbye to Bank Holiday beach trip
26 August, 2014
No-frills day trip to coast costs up to £172. One in five families can't afford trips from any towns surveyed
LIN Press Release - Universal Credit and Credit Unions - DWP update
26 August, 2014
Universal Credit & Credit Unions - Update statement from the DWP
Call for clarity on latest universal credit phase
22 August, 2014
Officials at DWP are to hold a meeting to discuss how to resolve a technical difficulty in cancelling HB when claimants switch to UC
CIH warns landlords about 'unfairly pressurising' tenants to pay extra rent
21 August, 2014
The CIH has warned social landlords against putting 'unfair pressure' on tenants to pay extra rent under the rollout of universal credit
Free Budgeting Advice For Universal Credit In Bath
21 August, 2014
People claiming Universal Credit in Bath are being urged to take advantage of free budgeting advice to help them manage their money, now paid to them every month
Tablet-equipped tenants to be denied phone access to landlord
20 August, 2014
Landlord's 'Digital Deal' scheme will deny tenants phone access for queries
New universal credit rules for tenants begin this week
20 August, 2014
An alteration meaning social landlords can now tell who is claiming universal credit began yesterday
Benefit cash delays causing misery
20 August, 2014
A Five-week wait for benefit payments could push St Helens residents into rent arrears
Spending watchdog accuses DWP of hiding universal credit's failings
19 August, 2014
Public accounts committee says that categorising the scheme as 'reset' may have been to prevent scrutiny and hide problems
Whither Universal Credit?
19 August, 2014
Arch has been tracking the impact of the underoccupation penalty on tenants and landlords through a joint survey with CWAG and the NFA
Was universal credit 'reset' attempt to hide problems?
19 August, 2014
Decision to 'reset' universal credit (UC) programme may have been an attempt to "keep information secret and prevent scrutiny"
HA's universal credit experiment records 99% rent collection rate
19 August, 2014
A Salford housing association says its experiment with direct housing benefit payments to tenants has been very successful
Welfare reform: will Iain Duncan Smith's benefits revolution happen?
18 August, 2014
The work and pensions secretary has restated his determination to transform Britain's welfare system
Change to Universal Credit housing costs process
18 August, 2014
Following a successful trial in Warrington, a new housing cost verification process will be extended to all live running sites
Housing associations urge benefit claimants to pay extra rent in advance
18 August, 2014
Fears are growing that tenants will default on their payments once they are transferred to universal credit
Expert says HAs shouldn't need to collect rent upfront in wake of universal credit storm
18 August, 2014
A UC expert has said that housing associations shouldn't need to ask for rent up front
DWP announces roll-out of Housing Cost Verification Trial
18 August, 2014
The DWP formally announced today the roll-out of a Housing Cost Verification trial that it had been running with New Charter Housing Association in North West England
Universal credit: Some hard facts
15 August, 2014
In the past I've highlighted concerns over the way the universal credit 'assessment period' operates when there is a change in the claimant's household make-up and/or financial circumstances
New tenant rules for universal credit
14 August, 2014
New system will keep landlords up to date with payment methods
Universal Credit rollout could take over 1,000 years
14 August, 2014
Latest figures show just 540 people started claiming the benefit in May, the lowest monthly take-up since July 2013
Floundering DWP move universal credit goalposts
13 August, 2014
The Department of Work and Pensions has moved the goalposts to make it appear that more people have signed up to its new universal credit system
Universal Credit statistics: Apr 2013 to 31 May 2014
13 August, 2014
Statistics for April 2013 to 31 May 2014 with breakdowns by Jobcentre Plus office, local authority and parliamentary constituency
Families 'stuck in working poverty'
12 August, 2014
Families working full time at the national minimum wage are 18% short of the basic amount needed to provide a minimum standard of living
Welfare reform must continue, Iain Duncan Smith says
11 August, 2014
Welfare reforms driving the "jobs miracle" must continue, says Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith
A rent first approach to Universal Credit
08 August, 2014
Outlines the changes introduced to tackle the challenge to housing association income posed by Universal Credit
Universal Credit: moving deductions from benefits for rent arrears
06 August, 2014
Deductions from benefits for rent arrears - migration to UC
Universal credit staff costs 'unsustainable'
01 August, 2014
Housing association trial suggests it faces £1.2m hit
DWP plotting 'secret' universal credit plans
31 July, 2014
Labour MP has claimed the governemnt is keeping plans "under wraps" about Universal Credit
Universal credit safeguards are working
31 July, 2014
By Lord Freud, the government's minister for welfare reform and one of the chief architects of universal credit
A new disability minister to take on the reforms
29 July, 2014
Britain has a new Minister of State for Disabled People - Mark Harper, MP for the Forest of Dean
Universal Credit launches in local area
28 July, 2014
New jobseekers in the Wilmslow area will join the Government's new benefits system when they start to claim Universal Credit for the first time
A bold plan to make welfare more personalised and responsive
23 July, 2014
Jobs must surely be one of the great success stories of this government: 1.8 million more people in work
Government to update communications with benefit claimants
22 July, 2014
The government is updating the way it talks to benefit claimants following an independent review of Jobseeker's Allowance sanctions
6,000 people claiming universal credit
18 July, 2014
Nearly 6,000 people were claiming the new universal credit benefit payment at the end of April
Iain Duncan Smith: Sir Bob Kerslake was right about universal credit business case
11 July, 2014
IDS has been forced to admit that the lifetime business case for the implementation of UC has not yet been signed off by the Treasury
The introduction of Universal Credit to couples
11 July, 2014
This briefing looks at the implications for housing associations and tenants of the roll out to include couples
Islington selected for universal credit trial
11 July, 2014
The London Borough of Islington has been selected to trial a new support system for residents
Touchbase DWP e-zine
10 July, 2014
July 2014 - includes information on the continued expansion of Universal Credit and also PIP
Local support announced for jobseekers to help prepare for Universal Credit
10 July, 2014
Jobseekers to get extra help to get online and manage their finances on a monthly basis to prepare for the world of work under Universal Credit
Duncan Smith denies 'deception' over universal credit
09 July, 2014
A Labour MP has accused ministers of a "deliberate act of deception" over whether the Treasury has signed off the business case for universal credit
Treasury has not signed off on Duncan Smith's universal credit
08 July, 2014
Head of civil service admits Treasury is only releasing money for troubled Tory policy after 'conditional reassurances' on progress
DWP accused of 'black propaganda' in universal credit debate
08 July, 2014
Glenda Jackson has attacked the Department of Work and Pensions for embarking on a programme of "black propaganda"
Universal Credit: Towards an effective poverty reduction strategy
03 July, 2014
The report asserts that people will have to work fewer hours to escape poverty under Universal Credit
Five jobcentres start offering Universal Credit to couples
02 July, 2014
Five jobcentres have started offering Universal Credit to couples as well as single people
Households Below Average Income
01 July, 2014
An analysis of the income distribution 1994/95 - 2012/13 July 2014
Reeves versus Duncan Smith - universal credit debate highlights
01 July, 2014
Iain Duncan Smith was once again forced to defend universal credit in the House of Commons yesterday
Universal credit 'could be beginning of the end' for homeless charity
30 June, 2014
A homelessness charity has said the introduction of universal credit could be the beginning of the end of its service
Universal Credit to take the first new claims for couples
30 June, 2014
Universal Credit will be extended again as the service opens up to new claims from couples
DWP loses universal credit documents appeal
27 June, 2014
The Department for Work and Pensions has lost an upper tribunal appeal over documents concerning the progress of UC implementation
Lord Freud: IDS took decision to 'reset' universal credit
25 June, 2014
Lord Freud has reassured peers that the decision to 'reset' universal credit does not put the flagship policy in jeopardy
Rachel Reeves: Labour will 'pause' Universal Credit if we win power
23 June, 2014
The shadow work and pensions minister says that Labour would not 'throw good money after bad' on the troubled benefit
Report of a telephone survey with g15 tenants
23 June, 2014
Eight in 10 London housing association tenants surveyed have a bank account
Universal credit extended to four more areas
23 June, 2014
Universal credit was extended to four more areas of the north west of England
Tenants unprepared for Universal Credit
23 June, 2014
Riverside working with New Direction and Barclays, has been preparing its tenants for welfare reform, specifically Universal Credit, to help them cope with the changes
We will protect you
20 June, 2014
Universal credit is still a work in progress, but that means proper safeguards are being put in place
Universal Credit policy to expand to 90 jobcentres
20 June, 2014
The government's flagship welfare policy, Universal Credit, is to be introduced in 90 jobcentres in north-west England
Further Universal Credit roll out in the North West
19 June, 2014
Universal Credit will be introduced in additional jobcentres from 23 June
Government considering new rules for universal credit
19 June, 2014
Some 'trusted' landlords may receive benefits direct at an earlier stage
Cuts may undermine work incentives in universal credit
18 June, 2014
Thinktank launches expert review of welfare scheme, saying policy changes have not received sufficient scrutiny
Welfare cuts one year on: Now Britain's poorest are on par with former Eastern bloc
18 June, 2014
Ros Wynne-Jones meets the people who are suffering a year after Bedroom Tax as rent arrears have rocketed
All aboard the universal credit bus
18 June, 2014
Salix Homes is using a community bus to help tenants get ready for universal credit which is being introduced in Salford this summer
Call for country-wide universal credit rollout
18 June, 2014
The government should roll out its universal credit system across the country rather than phasing it in through pilots
Lottery funding for Coventry food poverty
17 June, 2014
More than £370,000 in lottery funding has been awarded to tackle food poverty in Coventry - home to one of the UK's busiest food banks
Welfare Reform: The Impact on Homelessness and Tenancy Sustainment for Scottish Housing Associations
17 June, 2014
The cumulative impact of the 'bedroom tax', benefit sanctions and problems accessing financial assistance at times of crisis is likely to result in an increase in homelessness in Scotland
HB G6/2014
17 June, 2014
Contains information on work capability assessment independent review and official experimental Universal Credit statistics
HB A12/2014
16 June, 2014
Contains information on universal credit: Change of circumstances affecting Housing Benefit
Why is only one social landlord signed up to the digital inclusion charter?
13 June, 2014
Despite being well placed to get people online, few organisations have signed up to be a part of the government's official strategy
Universal Credit statistics: Apr 2013 to 31 March 2014
12 June, 2014
Universal Credit statistics: April 2013 to 31 March 2014 with breakdowns by Jobcentre Plus office, local authority and parliamentary constituency
Will universal credit create discerning tenants? Perhaps - but that's not point
12 June, 2014
Hopes for a new generation of responsible renters will be undone by the risk of rising arrears
Increased benefits 'help poor more'
12 June, 2014
Increasing benefits for low income workers would be a cheaper and more effective way of helping struggling families than tax cuts floated by the major parties
How the other 40,000 live
12 June, 2014
Statistics show Wales has been hit harder by the removal of the spare room subsidy or 'bedroom tax' than any other part of the UK
Top tribunals judge questions universal credit 'disappearance'
11 June, 2014
A senior tribunals judge has thrown doubt over the future of universal credit after it 'disappeared' from Department for Work and Pensions forecasts on the number of predicted appeals
DWP starts IT overhaul as it commits to 25% SMB spend
09 June, 2014
The DWP has committed to increasing its spend with SMBs to 25% of expenditure as it outlined its revised IT transformation programme
The 3 S's of Universal Credit
09 June, 2014
Many would argue that we have not seen such change in the welfare system since the creation of the welfare state
Back to square one for universal credit
04 June, 2014
The controversial welfare benefit has been classified as an entirely new project by a Whitehall body, so it's not too late to make the necessary changes
Scottish independence: Call to increase minimum wage
04 June, 2014
An expert group on welfare set up by the Scottish government has recommended a substantial rise in the minimum wage
DWP refuses to disclose universal credit alternative payment figures
03 June, 2014
The Department for Work and Pensions has refused to disclose figures relating to the number of alternative payment arrangements made under universal credit
The EU's wise advice to the UK shouldn't be ignored
03 June, 2014
It's not up to the unelected commission to determine Britain's policies, but it has reason and evidence on its side
Government agrees specialist housing team for universal credit
30 May, 2014
The government has agreed to include a specialist housing team within the universal credit service centre
Government claims 'digital success' with Universal Credit
30 May, 2014
Widening access to Universal Credit information across a range of digital devices is proving popular with claimants & boosting digital skills
A fair start for everyone
29 May, 2014
Benefit cuts to trap five million UK children in poverty by 2020
Universal Credit: 100,000 views on the red button, smartphone apps and Facebook
29 May, 2014
Interactive TV, smartphone apps and social media has been used to view over 100,000 pages of Universal Credit information
Universal Credit service improvements
29 May, 2014
Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed some changes to Universal Credit service, which should benefit landlords and tenants
Iain Duncan Smith has failed on Universal Credit. He must be replaced
28 May, 2014
He has proved himself to be inept at managing its implementation over the past three years
Delays to universal credit lead watchdog to rate it as a new project
27 May, 2014
Due to the delays to universal credit, a government watchdog has assessed it as 'reset' meaning it is considered a new scheme
'Vulnerable people' will be caught up in Universal Credit fiasco warns Oldham MP
27 May, 2014
Debbie Abrahams, warns there remains an uncertainty about the Universal credit IT system and the way vulnerable people will be supported with the changed it brings
Concerns as charity helps more homeless
27 May, 2014
A homelessness charity has revealed a large increase in the number of people needing help in Chorley - and fears that demand could still rise further
Universal credit 'reset' after catalogue of blunders
23 May, 2014
The government's spluttering flagship reform of the benefits system has been officially 'reset'
IDS continues to block universal credit report
22 May, 2014
Iain Duncan Smith is continuing to block the publication of reports believed to reveal the failure of the universal credit scheme
Young Men Most Likely to be on Universal Credit
22 May, 2014
More than six in ten (63%) of new claims for Universal Credit are for people under 25 and only 4% of claimants are over 50
Iain Duncan Smith continues to hide reports showing failure of universal credit
21 May, 2014
The DWP is continuing to block publication of reports set to reveal the failure of the Universal Credit scheme, despite a series of rulings insisting they should be released
Universal Credit - the critical issues
20 May, 2014
Universal Credit is the biggest change in the welfare benefits system in a generation - getting it wrong is just not an option
Benefit reforms: One year on, universal credit is not working
19 May, 2014
The people of Warrington have been feeling like Iain Duncan Smith's guinea pigs
Nearly 6,000 people on universal credit
16 May, 2014
Statistics on universal credit pilots, show that between April 2013 and Feb 2014, a total of 5,910 people started claiming universal credit
Here for everyone
16 May, 2014
The roll-out of universal credit is moving steadily forward and employers and claimants are already seeing benefits, says Lord David Freud
MPs warn of fraud uncertainties surrounding universal credit
16 May, 2014
It remains uncertain how the Department for Work and Pensions will manage the housing costs element of universal credit
The Universal Credit (Transitional Provisions) Regulations 2014
16 May, 2014
Treatment of ongoing entitlement to certain benefits: benefit cap
MPs fear housing fraud could thwart Universal Credit savings
16 May, 2014
MPs have raised fears welfare savings promised by the introduction of Universal Credit (UC) could be undermined
Universal Credit fraud fears raised by MPs
15 May, 2014
Government attempts to cut fraud by introducing the Universal Credit risk being "seriously undermined" by issues with housing benefits
BPF calls for DWP to assist housing professionals maintain tenancies
15 May, 2014
Government should do its utmost to ensure that its flagship welfare policy, Universal Credit, does not further increase pressure on housing benefit claimants in the private rented sector
Fraud and error: Jobseeker's Allowance and Income Support overpayments at lowest levels ever
15 May, 2014
Jobseeker's Allowance and Income Support fraud and error overpayments are at their lowest recorded levels
Fears over digital move for universal credit
08 May, 2014
There are fresh concerns that people on low incomes will struggle to access the digital service for universal credit as it is rolled out across the North West
Is zero-hours move fair?
07 May, 2014
The government has announced jobseekers risk losing their benefits if they turn down certain zero-hours contracts without good reason
Fear that Universal Credit will leave tenants struggling
06 May, 2014
National Housing Federation research demonstrates that people aren't ready for such significant upheaval
Fears Universal Credit will leave tenants struggling
02 May, 2014
Seven in ten not ready for shift to online benefits system
Universal Credit: First year of welfare transformation and north west next steps
30 April, 2014
The expansion of the full Universal Credit benefit to the rest of the north west of England will start in June
Full universal credit to be rolled out across whole of North West
30 April, 2014
The government's flagship reform of the benefit system, universal credit, is to be rolled out in full across the whole of the North West from June
Universal Credit: First year of welfare transformation and north west next steps
29 April, 2014
The expansion of the full Universal Credit benefit to the rest of the north west of England will start in June
DWP calls on digital services framework for new pension system
28 April, 2014
The DWP is planning to procure more services from the digital services framework, this time for a beta version of its new state pension system
Universal Credit: Rent arrears form
28 April, 2014
DWP form for applying for rent arrears deductions
Thamesbank and Hounslow Council Help for struggling families
25 April, 2014
Residents struggling with the impact of welfare reform will be able to get help managing their finances thanks to a partnership between Hounslow Council and Thamesbank
Are you borrowing to pay your rent or mortgage?
17 April, 2014
Many feel they have no choice but to borrow in order to pay their rent or mortgage each month
Universal Credit: experimental official statistics to January 2014
16 April, 2014
Universal Credit is a new benefit that has started to replace six existing benefits and tax credits with a single monthly payment
MPs less than impressed with DWP's costly IT fiasco and "snail's pace" roll out of Universal Credit
10 April, 2014
The Government's implementation of UC is proceeding at a "snail's pace" and local authorities will now have to administer new claims for housing benefit for at least two years longer than previously thought
Universal Credit inquiry 'hampered by ministers'
09 April, 2014
A Commons committee has accused the government of "hampering" its scrutiny of the Universal Credit welfare policy
Universal Credit implementation: monitoring DWP's performance in 2012-13
09 April, 2014
There remains worrying uncertainty about the new Universal Credit IT system
Universal Credit confusion risks driving large landlords away from housing benefit tenants
09 April, 2014
Confusion over how rent arrears will be tackled under the Universal Credit has prompted almost four in 10 larger landlords to reduce the number of properties they let to welfare recipients
'Black-hole' of universal credit should be stopped in Wales
08 April, 2014
The Welsh Government is calling for Westminster to rethink its controversial new welfare benefit
Universal Credit starts in Wales
08 April, 2014
New jobseekers in Shotton can claim Universal Credit from 7 April 2014 as the new benefit rolls out
Universal Credit first for Deeside jobseekers
08 April, 2014
Jobseekers in Deeside will be the first in Wales to be able to make a claim for Universal Credit
Council temporary housing funding cut
04 April, 2014
Local authorities to lose money under new universal credit system
Direct Payments Demonstration Projects Landlord Learning Document
01 April, 2014
This publication pulls together key issues and learning that the organisations involved collectively agree on and also provides practical examples.
HB Direct
01 April, 2014
Issue 147 April 2014 - Preparing for Universal Credit and Direct Payment Demonstrations Project and Removal of Spare Room Subsidy Toolkit
HB A9/2014
31 March, 2014
Contains information on temporary accommodation in Housing Benefit and Universal Credit
George Osborne hails reforms as key to economic recovery
31 March, 2014
Chancellor lauds creation of more than 1.3m posts as tax and welfare changes 'encourage jobs growth' across Britain
Residents more than £500,000 better off with help from Contour Homes
27 March, 2014
Residents struggling to cope with the benefits system are more than £500,000 better off because of help from one of the North West's biggest housing associations
Lack of trust 'major barrier' to financial inclusion ahead of universal credit roll-out
27 March, 2014
People's reluctance is one of the biggest concerns facing housing providers and local authorities ahead of the roll-out of universal credit
Local authority led pilots: preparing for Universal Credit implementation
27 March, 2014
DWP Universal Credit Guidance
Universal credit and 'exempt accommodation' - changes explained
25 March, 2014
For many months the housing charity Homeless Link has been in close discussion with the Department for Work and Pensions to resolve the challenges of universal credit
More than 8000 Milton Keynes families will get help with childcare costs
25 March, 2014
A major childcare package is set to help 8820 families in Milton Keynes
Research to look at impact of welfare reforms in Essex
24 March, 2014
Nationally, the impact of reforms like the bedroom tax and universal credit has already been making the headlines
7 ways Universal Credit will be a better deal
20 March, 2014
New figures show 4,280 people started claiming Universal Credit by the end of 2013 - as the national roll-out of the new benefit continues
Universal Credit statistics: Apr 2013 to 31 Dec 2013
20 March, 2014
Universal Credit statistics: April 2013 to 31 Dec 2013 with breakdowns by Jobcentre Plus office, local authority and parliamentary constituency
Benefit changes tackle 'dependency'
14 March, 2014
Big benefit changes, which start being introduced in Wales next month, will help transform a 'dependency' culture
Universal Credit Boss Steps Down After Only A Year In The Job
13 March, 2014
DWP Chief Information Officer has stepped down from his role overseeing the roll-out of Universal Credit after only a year in charge
Universal Credit: Iain Duncan Smith and welfare changes
11 March, 2014
The work and pensions secretary has started the biggest overhaul of the UK's welfare state since it was brought in
Circle Housing chief urges housing leaders to tackle welfare reform together
10 March, 2014
Mark Rogers has urged the housing industry, government and third sector agencies to pull together and support customers affected by welfare reform
Iain Duncan Smith takes viewers' questions on welfare
10 March, 2014
Universal Credit and welfare reforms meant 'millions will be better off', promised the work and pensions secretary
Landlord's arrears rise by £241,000 during universal credit pilot
05 March, 2014
A pilot of direct payments to 1,000 tenants saw arrears rise by £241,000, with an average debt of £130 per person
Councils spending £3m on food poverty and food banks
04 March, 2014
Almost £3m of public money is being used to help tackle food poverty, BBC Panorama has discovered
FOI response to Universal Credit IT system query
04 March, 2014
Estimates of the cost of using private IT firms to complete the UC IT system without government digital involvement
Government 'cannot ignore food bank rise' says bishop
03 March, 2014
A bishop has said the government cannot ignore the rise in the number of food banks across the UK
FOI request in relation to Universal Credit and self employment
03 March, 2014
Freedom of Information request 201/2014
DWP: Housing benefit will be sanctioned
27 February, 2014
Part-time workers judged to be doing too little to find full-time work face having their benefit for housing costs sanctioned by the government for the first time under universal credit
Universal Credit expands to Bath and Harrogate
24 February, 2014
New jobseekers in Bath and Harrogate will be able to make a claim for Universal Credit today as the new benefit rolls out
Universal Credit: Government's welfare reform 'may be scrapped after next election'
20 February, 2014
IT glitches and low numbers threaten £2bn project
Universal Credit: The real flaw in IDS's benefits reform is the timetable
20 February, 2014
Implementation was always going to be slow and tricky
Universal Credit: New claimant figures
19 February, 2014
New figures show 3,610 people claimed Universal Credit up to 30 November 2013
Benefit reforms are hiding the true number of unemployed
17 February, 2014
Universal credit recipients don't appear in jobless figures, linked to jobseeker's allowance
Households 'worse off' in benefit reform says Bevan Foundation boss
17 February, 2014
Reaction to claims by a Welsh government report that the nation's economy is losing £930m every year because of welfare reform
Universal Credit IT 'probably over ambitious'
07 February, 2014
Max Tse said that most of the problems at DWP were down to governance
Top tips for letting to benefits tenants
05 February, 2014
Following speculation that buy-to-let landlords could shun tenants on benefits after the introduction of the universal credit scheme George Spencer offers advice to landlords
Latest universal credit chief working part-time since Christmas
05 February, 2014
The man brought in to 'rescue' universal credit has been working part-time since Christmas due to being off sick with bronchitis
Iain Duncan Smith's doomed Universal Credit scheme cost £225k Per Person
05 February, 2014
The project has already cost the taxpayer £612million and has been dogged by delays and IT blunders
Tenants continue to be baffled by universal credit
04 February, 2014
The government's stuttering universal credit system is continuing to baffle tenants
Iain Duncan Smith faces angry MPs over universal credit
04 February, 2014
Work and pensions secretary questioned about failures in IT system used to implement new benefit
Duncan Smith: MPs 'cannot run' my department
04 February, 2014
Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith has told MPs they "cannot run" his department as he defended decisions taken over key welfare reforms
NHF calls for overhaul of universal credit payment rules
03 February, 2014
The National Housing Federation has called for an overhaul of universal credit switch-back rules in the wake of concerns from landlords
NHF calls for overhaul of universal credit payment rules
31 January, 2014
Alternative payment process criticised by pilot landlords in north west
White knuckle ride
31 January, 2014
Social landlords taking part in the universal credit pathfinder projects have found themselves on a roller-coaster ride
Universal credit: DWP answers key questions on housing payments
30 January, 2014
The DWP has published a new guide for social landlords to help them understand and plan for the direct payment of housing costs under UC
Iain Duncan Smith Blasts Council Of Europe 'Lunacy' Over 'Inadequate' UK Benefits Warning
30 January, 2014
Iain Duncan Smith has lashed out at the Council of Europe's "lunacy" for calling on the UK to raise the amount of benefits paid out
Benefit cap: still no proof that it persuades the unemployed to get a job
29 January, 2014
A committee of MPs has demanded that ministers prove the benefit cap works. But even if they couldn't would they scrap it?
Universal Credit rolling out - what it means for employers
29 January, 2014
Lord Freud discusses how Universal Credit will help employees to work more hours and calls on employers to champion the new benefit
Universal Credit and rented housing
29 January, 2014
This document explains what Universal Credit means for landlords and tenants
ICO backs DWP refusal to publish universal credit risk document
28 January, 2014
The Information Commissioner has upheld a decision by the DWP to refuse to publish its 'risk register' for universal credit
Crooked grandmother evicted from council home
28 January, 2014
A woman who fraudulently claimed £42,000 in benefits has been evicted from her council home
Universal Credit - experimental official statistics to October 2013
23 January, 2014
Universal Credit is a new benefit that has started to replace six existing benefits and tax credits with a single monthly payment
Government celebrates high universal credit take-up by under-25s
23 January, 2014
The government is celebrating new figures that show nearly 3,000 people started claiming its new welfare system, universal credit
Social landlord optimises rent payments ahead of universal credit with pioneering agreement
23 January, 2014
A social landlord is optimising rent payments from tenants ahead of universal credit through a pioneering agreement with its local credit union
Department for Work and Pensions mid-year report April 2013 to September 2013
23 January, 2014
Report on progress made against the department's objectives for the first half of the financial year 2013 to 2014
Universal Credit improves work incentives for young people
22 January, 2014
New figures show that 2,960 people started claiming Universal Credit in the Greater Manchester and Cheshire areas from April 2013 to the end of October 2013
More landlords turn away housing benefit claimants
21 January, 2014
A survey finds that of the landlords who currently let to people on benefits, more than half say they won't after the roll-out of universal credit
Pioneering pair launch a new service for landlords
15 January, 2014
Two entrepreneurs with years of experience of dealing with housing benefits and recovering rent arrears have launched an innovative letting agency for landlords with tenants on benefits
Scotland: Key issues at-a-glance
15 January, 2014
This page summarises the implications of the referendum for pensions and welfare
Universal Credit on the Red Button
14 January, 2014
Information about Universal Credit and finding work is now available by hitting the red button on the TV remote control
Why landlords are shunning profitable benefit tenants
13 January, 2014
Benefit claimants are more profitable than many types of tenants, but landlords are turning them away
HB Direct issue - January 2014
10 January, 2014
DWP newsletter which includes information about how people who do not have internet access at home can now find information about Universal Credit by hitting the red button on their TV remote control
Maude denies Universal Credit rift with Duncan Smith
09 January, 2014
Claims of a rift between two government departments over Universal Credit were 'simply incorrect'
Touchbase DWP e-zine
09 January, 2014
Updates on the rollouts of both Universal Credit and the Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
Government's flagship benefits scheme faces more delays after rift
08 January, 2014
Documents reveal friction between Department for Work and Pensions and Cabinet Office as IT problems mount
Francis Maude denies IT row with Iain Duncan Smith
08 January, 2014
Cabinet Office minister Francis Maude has denied falling out with Iain Duncan Smith over the government's flagship universal credit scheme
How councils can prepare residents for universal credit
03 January, 2014
Findings show that 90% of Citizen's Advice clients are not ready for universal credit - so what can councils do?
Bishop of Warrington's warning on universal credit
24 December, 2013
A bishop has warned the UK risks "losing the safety net" the benefit system "should provide" as the new universal credit is brought in
Delays to Lord Freud's pledge
20 December, 2013
Civil servants are encountering serious complications fulfilling Lord David Freud's pledge to protect vulnerable and disabled people from the 'unintended consequences' of welfare reform
Curbs on EU benefits to come into force on 1 January
18 December, 2013
New rules on how long EU jobseekers will have to wait to claim benefits are to be brought in early
Life on the Edge? - Report
18 December, 2013
Wakefield and District Housing's story of the first 200 days of the under-occupation penalty
Call For 'Bedroom Tax' To Be Scrapped
18 December, 2013
In a pointed report, the Scottish Affairs Committee has called on the government in London to scrap the reforms
Freud: 'Why should we hurry with universal credit?'
16 December, 2013
The rollout of universal credit for the most vulnerable people will take 'as much time as it takes'
Universal Credit: guidance for local authorities on implementation
16 December, 2013
Key Questions and Answers for Local Authorities
Citizens Advice Bureau issues warning over introduction of Universal Credit
16 December, 2013
York CAB has warned it will need more resources to cope with soaring demand for help when Universal Credit is introduced
Cameron rejects child benefit cap proposal
16 December, 2013
David Cameron has rejected a proposal from a member of the number 10 policy board to limit child benefit to two children for every family
Universal Credit: working together for improved outcomes
13 December, 2013
How DWP and local authorities are working together to implement Universal Credit
Stealth cuts are making universal credit toxic to the working poor
13 December, 2013
Concerns about IT bungling and delays obscure a series of cuts that are changing the policy's character before it's even in place
Direct Payment Demonstration Project: Learning and Payment figures
12 December, 2013
Feedback and payment figures on direct payments of Housing Benefit to tenants in Direct Payment Demonstration Projects areas - December 2013
25% of housing benefit payments switched back to landlords
12 December, 2013
One in four tenants on the UC direct payment demonstration projects have had their benefit switched back to their landlords due to rent arrears
Commons clash over Universal Credit
11 December, 2013
The government is prioritising the 'safe and secure' delivery of Universal Credit
NAO report highlights UC concerns
11 December, 2013
This National Audit Office report reiterates the earlier NAO report 'Universal Credit: early progress' published in September 2013
MPs to examine delays in Universal Credit introduction
10 December, 2013
MPs are to examine problems hampering the implementation of the central pillar of government changes to the welfare system
MP sorry for money 'wasted' on Universal Credit system
10 December, 2013
A Conservative MP on the Work and Pensions Select Committee has apologised for money wasted on rolling out the Universal Credit System
Landlords 'Avoid Tenants On Universal Credit'
10 December, 2013
Sky News has obtained figures which suggest a rising number of landlords are steering clear of benefit claimants over fears of non-payment
Universal credit failed IT system write-off increased by £6m
10 December, 2013
But Iain Duncan Smith's department says cost of more software over next five years will be revised downward
Iain Duncan Smith confronts claims DWP staff given targets to stop benefits
10 December, 2013
Whistleblower says staff warned they would be disciplined unless they increased number of claimants coming off register
Families Facing 'Heat or Eat' Dilemma This Christmas
10 December, 2013
Ten housing providers have united to investigate how changes to the benefits system and Welfare to Work initiatives are affecting their customers
Universal Credit will threaten rent setting freedom
10 December, 2013
A greater proportion of social housing tenants will be on benefit under Universal Credit than is currently the case under Housing Benefit
Duncan Smith defends Universal Credit from growing criticism
09 December, 2013
Iain Duncan Smith has rejected claims his flagship welfare policy will miss key targets and insisted the IT system underpinning it 'seems to be fine'
Benefits capped in almost 1,000 Scottish households
09 December, 2013
Almost 1,000 households have already had their benefits capped in Scotland since the introduction of benefit changes
Iain Duncan Smith: Universal Credit reform 'on budget'
09 December, 2013
The work and pensions secretary Iain Duncan Smith has told that the government's Universal Credit reform remains "on budget"
Thousands of Sheffield council tenants urged to open jam jar accounts ahead of universal credit
09 December, 2013
Sign up to jam jar accounts being offered by the city's credit union ahead of direct payments being introduced under universal credit
Proposed benefit and pension rates 2014 to 2015
09 December, 2013
A list of the proposed benefit and pension rates for 2014 to 2015
The Human Impact of Welfare Reform Exposed
09 December, 2013
Ministers hope the Government's flagship welfare reform will teach people to be more responsible but can they shoulder the burden?
Delays to Universal Credit Cause Concern
06 December, 2013
Commenting on reports today that Universal Credit may not be fully implemented across the country by the 2017 deadline
Around 50% of households affected by benefit cap in London
06 December, 2013
A government report has revealed today that 47 per cent of households affected by the benefit cap to October were in London
Universal Credit has become the one-eyed mother-in-law of the Coalition
06 December, 2013
Universal Credit has now become the one-eyed mother-in-law of the Coalition government
Benefit Cap - number of households capped, data to October 2013, GB
06 December, 2013
Households on out-of-work benefits will no longer receive more in welfare payments than the average weekly wage for working households
Universal credit - an IT fiasco?
05 December, 2013
It's an ambitious plan to transform the benefits system - but it looks as though the technology meant to power universal credit is turning into an IT disaster
Universal Credit may not hit 2017 deadline
05 December, 2013
Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith has told the BBC that the Universal Credit programme may not be complete by 2017 as planned
Universal Credit progress
05 December, 2013
Universal Credit will account for £70 billion of benefit spending each year, and bring a £38 billion economic benefit to society over 10 years
Universal Credit may not hit 2017 deadline, says Duncan Smith
05 December, 2013
Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith has told the BBC that the Universal Credit programme may not be complete by 2017 as planned
Universal Credit: Housing association pilots prepaid card for automatic rent payments
04 December, 2013
Housing association Moat is piloting a prepaid card that will help its tenants pay their rent when they receive housing benefit direct under UC
DWP reveals universal credit numbers
03 December, 2013
A total of 2,150 people started claiming universal credit in the first four pathfinder areas
Securing rental income through Universal Credit
03 December, 2013
Are landlords doing all they can to make their preferred payment methods attractive to residents?
Universal Credit claimants in Pathfinder areas
03 December, 2013
Key findings between April 2013 and 30th September
More borrowing under universal credit scheme
02 December, 2013
New review of pilot projects shows universal credit claimants are resorting to payday lenders, overdrafts and other loans
Residents without bank accounts at risk of arrears under new benefits system
02 December, 2013
Universal credit will be paid directly into bank accounts, but a worrying number of social housing residents do not yet have one
Limited Universal Credit pilot sees 90% of people claim benefits online
02 December, 2013
An interim report into the use of the new Universal Credit welfare system has found that 90 percent of people in the pilot claimed their benefits online
Hastings 'under pressure' from London benefit families
29 November, 2013
An East Sussex council says it is concerned about the number of benefit dependent families being moved out of London into Hastings
Universal Credit encourages people to look for jobs
29 November, 2013
Research shows that Universal Credit claimants do more to get into work than jobseekers claiming under the current system
Bedroom tax: stress and struggle as benefits clawback hits home
28 November, 2013
Claimants explain how the policy has forced changes, from heating cutbacks to fruitless hunts for smaller homes
Association tenants 'working but claiming benefit'
28 November, 2013
The majority of London's housing association tenants are in work, but still require housing benefit to pay their rent
Wakefield and District Housing reveals plans for digital hub
28 November, 2013
WDH has revealed plans for a new state-of-the-art digital suite offering free computer access to the public in Wakefield city centre
New mums on low incomes will find it harder to make work pay under Universal Credit
28 November, 2013
A failing in the design of the Universal Credit system will undermine the Coalition's stated intention
The Tipping Point
28 November, 2013
This report considers the impact of the changes in welfare support on social landlords' income, arrears, collection costs and empty properties
Majority of employed London tenants still require housing benefit
28 November, 2013
The majority of London's housing association tenants are in work but still require housing benefit to pay their rent
SNP: Independent Scotland 'would remove housing benefit from universal credit'
27 November, 2013
An independent Scotland would remove housing benefit from universal credit and maintain direct payments to landlords, an SNP white paper has said
White Paper: Health, wellbeing and social protection
26 November, 2013
Eleanor Bradford analyses the part of the White Paper that looks at health, wellbeing and social protection
DWP issue guidance on Bedroom Tax in Universal Credit
26 November, 2013
This memo gives guidance on changes introduced by the Housing Benefit and Universal Credit Regulations 2013
Scotland pledges to end bedroom tax and PIP
26 November, 2013
An independent Scottish Government pledges to abolish the bedroom tax, stop PIP and Universal Credit roll out
Payday lenders see benefit reforms as an 'opportunity'
26 November, 2013
Controversial payday lenders could profit from major changes to the benefit system by giving money to those struggling to make ends meet after reforms are rolled out
Inverness first in Scotland to operate Universal Credit
25 November, 2013
Inverness has become the first place in Scotland to operate the UK government's Universal Credit benefit
Universal Credit expands to Rugby and Inverness
25 November, 2013
New jobseekers in Inverness and Rugby will be able to make a claim for Universal Credit today as the new benefit rolls out
Training people to use universal credit 'could cost hundreds of millions'
22 November, 2013
Research shows many benefit claimants will need extensive help to get online, open bank accounts and manage budgets
Housing benefit reform: Housing associations struggle to let 700 homes
20 November, 2013
Changes to benefits payments have led to difficulties letting affordable homes and may stop hundreds more being built every year
Universal Credit rollout
18 November, 2013
Further details of the rollout schedule are now available with Rugby and Inverness the next areas to take Universal Credit claims from 25 November
Halton mulls online-only move for 90% of customers
15 November, 2013
A landlord is considering giving tenants tablets and smartphones as part of a drive to get 90 per cent of its customers online only by 2018 in a bid to cut costs in the face of welfare reform
Universal credit and a very public mess
12 November, 2013
The fortress mentality in the Department for Work and Pensions is exacerbated by the standoff between Iain Duncan Smith and his civil servants over welfare reform
Landlord fears rent arrears rise under Universal Credit
08 November, 2013
A private sector landlord with more than 700 homes says benefit changes could put his business at risk
CHC respond to 'Universal Credit Early Progress' report
08 November, 2013
Today the Public Accounts Committee have launched a report looking at 'Universal Credit Early Progress'
Government no comprehensive plan for Universal Credit
08 November, 2013
The Public Accounts Committee has published its 30th Report on Universal Credit: early progress
Universal credit scheme will waste at least £140m, say MPs
07 November, 2013
Committee criticises 'alarmingly weak' management and questions whether project can be delivered by 2017 deadline
PM backs Iain Duncan Smith over Universal Credit 'failures'
07 November, 2013
David Cameron has backed Iain Duncan Smith's handling of Universal Credit after a report by MPs claimed the welfare shake-up had gone wrong
Q&A;: Universal credit and the benefits overhaul
07 November, 2013
The introduction of the government's flagship universal credit benefit - a new payment that marks the biggest overhaul
Public Accounts Committee report: 'Universal Credit: early progress'
07 November, 2013
DWP Response to the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) report: 'Universal Credit: early progress'
DWP ministers to decide whether to scrap all of the £300m Universal Credit IT
06 November, 2013
Ministers at the DWP are to decide whether to immediately scrap all of the £300m Universal Credit IT systems and start again from scratch
Credit crunched: Single parents, universal credit and the struggle to make work pay
05 November, 2013
Gingerbread report
Universal Credit: early progress
05 November, 2013
The Public Accounts Committee publishes its 30th Report on Universal Credit: early progress
Single parents bear brunt of benefits changes
04 November, 2013
Universal credit and a new childcare voucher forecast to hit struggling lower-income households hardest
Universal credit: £120m could be written off to rescue welfare reform
01 November, 2013
Labour says ministers in disarray as leaked documents reveal two options for saving project to merge benefits and tax credits
Impact of welfare reform on people with disabilities
31 October, 2013
The Welfare Reform Act introduces Universal Credit, replacing most means tested benefits
DWP delays universal credit pilot roll out
29 October, 2013
The Department for Work and Pensions has again changed the timetable for the roll out of universal credit
More Universal Credit delays
29 October, 2013
Instead of the expected six Jobcentre areas, selected for the much vaunted roll out of Universal Credit, Hammersmith will be the sole 'flagship' for the new benefit
Universal credit: 'a genuine and bold reform to how we do welfare'
29 October, 2013
National Housing Federation chief David Orr has described Universal Credit as 'a genuine and bold reform to how we do welfare'
Universal Credit scheme rolls out
28 October, 2013
The government's flagship welfare reform - Universal Credit - is starting the next phase of its national launch but far more slowly than intended
Universal Credit scheme is 'massive transformation'
28 October, 2013
Changes to the welfare system are still on track according to the minister in charge
Universal Credit expands to London
28 October, 2013
New jobseekers in Hammersmith will be able to make a claim for Universal Credit
Freud 'not in a position' to give timetable for universal credit
28 October, 2013
Lord Freud has said he is 'not in a position' to say when couples and children will be moved onto universal credit
The Wales Report
25 October, 2013
Tenants in Wales say they can't cope with changes to the benefits system
Crunch time
25 October, 2013
Without government support, universal credit will come as a nasty shock to many households
Rent debts mount in Torfaen universal credit pilot
24 October, 2013
A leading economist says changes to housing benefits will result in a need for increased government spending on advice and support for tenants
Report highlights people opting to stay and pay bedroom tax
22 October, 2013
An examination of the bedroom tax in Scotland has found that the 'pull factors' keeping people in their current homes and communities outweighed the 'push driver' of the charge
Benefit changes rent arrears amnesty 'would need caution'
21 October, 2013
Any rent arrears amnesty as part of efforts to mitigate changes to the welfare system should be approached with caution
Landlords slam welfare pilots
18 October, 2013
Landlords in the universal credit pathfinder areas are complaining of poor communication from the Department for Work and Pensions
Alan Milburn says child poverty 'no longer problem of the workless and work-shy'
17 October, 2013
Working parents in Britain 'simply do not earn enough to escape poverty'
Credit where credit's due
11 October, 2013
Universal credit pilot projects show direct payment of benefits to tenants does work
DWP slammed for 'shocking lack of financial control' on universal credit
08 October, 2013
A 'good news only' culture masked a 'shocking lack of financial control' of the government's universal credit programme
Jobseekers embrace digital revolution
07 October, 2013
The way people claim benefits is being revolutionised with the proportion of claims made online more than doubling in a year
Millions 'will struggle' with Universal Credit payments
02 October, 2013
Millions of benefits claimants will struggle to manage their money under Universal Credit
More than 2.7m people will struggle with universal credit
02 October, 2013
A survey released today has found more than 2.7 million benefit recipients think they will struggle to make sense of their payments
Give social landlords funding for advising tenants about universal credit
19 September, 2013
Social landlords must be funded to provide advice to tenants if universal credit is going to succeed
Yorkshire MP claims need for food banks is a 'disgrace'
19 September, 2013
A Barnsley MP has said that the need for people to use food banks in Britain is a 'disgrace'
Universal Credit works for employers: quick guide
18 September, 2013
A quick guide for partner organisations about what Universal Credit means for employers
Welsh: Universal Credit works for employers
18 September, 2013
A quick guide for partner organisations about what Universal Credit means for employers in Welsh
Touchbase DWP e-zine
16 September, 2013
September 2013 - report on the roll out of the benefit cap to the final 40 local authority areas which began on 12 August and will be completed at the end of September
Benefit fraud could lead to 10-year jail terms,
16 September, 2013
Benefit cheats in England and Wales could face longer jail terms of up to 10 years, following new guidance from the director of public prosecutions
Longer sentences for benefit fraud: will it work?
16 September, 2013
The latest effort to 'get tough' on benefit fraud will see maximum sentences increased to ten years
£200m of Universal Credit IT could be scrapped, MPs told
12 September, 2013
A further £200m of IT work on the troubled Universal Credit programme could still be written off
Universal Credit - How even agile development couldn't keep this mega-project on track
11 September, 2013
ZD net have published an article which considers how the Universal Credit programme, described as the world's biggest agile software project, has run into cost overruns and delays
Universal credit hits new snag as David Cameron casts doubt on timetable
11 September, 2013
Prime minister says he is not 'religious' about meeting 2017 date, leading Labour to claim 'Iain Duncan Smith's promises have been shot to pieces by his boss'
UK's lowest-paid employees to be classed as 'not working enough'
09 September, 2013
One million people could be pushed to earn more - or have their benefits cut, says Department for Work and Pensions
Universal credit: Iain Duncan Smith blames civil servants for IT failings
06 September, 2013
Cabinet minister takes rare step of publicly blaming civil servants after report says they have weak control of welfare project
Q&A;: Universal credit and the benefits overhaul
06 September, 2013
The first trial of universal credit - a new payment that marks the biggest overhaul of the benefits system since the 1940s
David Cameron's £2.4bn universal credit project riddled with problems
05 September, 2013
£34m wasted on failed IT programmes and Labour says report proves cover up of issues that put welfare claimants at risk
Universal credit IT systems in question
05 September, 2013
The Head of the IT project for Universal Credit at the Department of Work and Pensions is being forced to defend the project
'Titanic-sized IT disaster' universal credit is 'overly ambitious'
05 September, 2013
The government's universal credit system has been slammed by the National Audit Office as overly ambitious in both its timetable and scope
Watchdog slams DWP for 'weak management' of universal credit
05 September, 2013
The implementation of universal credit suffered from 'weak management, ineffective control and poor governance'
Universal credit: Welfare reform 'poor value' watchdog says
05 September, 2013
The government's flagship welfare reform has been badly managed, is "overambitious" and poor value for money, the spending watchdog has said
Universal Credit: The First 100 days
03 September, 2013
Speech by Howard Shiplee, a former Olympics executive who was drafted in to direct the Universal Credit scheme
Universal Credit has been plagued by problems, says director
03 September, 2013
Britain's welfare reforms have been undermined by a series of "missteps" with officials in denial over emerging problems
Proportion of UK workless households falls to record low
29 August, 2013
Official figures show 17.1% of all households have no adult aged 16-64 in work, down from 17.9% a year earlier
Fraudster claimed benefits despite having thousands in savings
29 August, 2013
A benefit cheat who claimed almost £14,000 in job seeker's allowance while having undeclared savings of £16,000 tied up in a property has been prosecuted
DWP 'chaos' to cost £1.4bn, says Labour's Liam Byrne
21 August, 2013
Iain Duncan Smith's flagship welfare programmes have gone so badly wrong they are set to cost taxpayers £1.4bn, his Labour shadow has claimed
Digital Deal: 12 projects to help social tenants get online
12 August, 2013
The government's Digital Deal has provided funding for internet services and training to social housing tenants
Benefit cap completes roll-out
12 August, 2013
The government's benefits cap begins its roll-out into the country's final council areas
3,000 families affected by benefit cap
08 August, 2013
Nearly 3,000 households have had their incomes slashed as a result of the total benefits cap trialled in four London boroughs
Universal Credit could limit benefit access, Labour warns
07 August, 2013
Entitlement to free school meals, legal aid and a range of health measures threatened by new system
Iain Duncan Smith's DWP blowing £1.3million checking benefit cap by hand because computers are not ready
07 August, 2013
The Government has had to take on 112 workers to check what each household receives in the pilot areas
Universal credit is doomed - one-size-fits-all suits no one
07 August, 2013
Simplifying benefits is not a new idea. But cutting everyone down to the same size is hopeless in the face of differing needs
Responses to the Universal Credit local support services framework
05 August, 2013
In February this year Lord Freud published the Universal Credit Local Support Services Framework which was developed in partnership with local authorities
Universal Credit staff describe chaos behind scenes of flagship Tory reform
05 August, 2013
DWP employees criticise environment of poor management and high stress in leaked internal survey
Sanctions and conditionality briefing
02 August, 2013
New conditions and associated sanctions are being attached to welfare benefits. This is intended to reflect the principle behind Universal Credit that people who can, must look for work - NHF report
Universal Credit comes to Oldham and Warrington
29 July, 2013
New jobseekers in Oldham and Warrington will now be able to make a claim to Universal Credit
LIN Member Reprot July 2013 - Local Authority Led Universal Credit Pilots: A summary of early learning from the pilots
25 July, 2013
DWP Report
The sector needs a new vision to mitigate risk
24 July, 2013
From the introduction of Universal Credit to the decline in government funding, less reliable income streams are becoming more critical
Rent payment and collection under universal credit - guidance for landlords
22 July, 2013
CIH Report
Implementing Universal Credit
16 July, 2013
The implementation of Universal Credit in the Pathfinder and plans for rolling-out the next stage
DWP finally admits Universal Credit IT not up to scratch - calling in GDS
15 July, 2013
It claims that any 'enhanced IT solution' needs to be cost effective and delivered on time
Universal credit is simple: work more and get paid less
15 July, 2013
This Tory benefit reform was meant to give people incentives to work - but crunch the figures and you find the opposite is true
Universal Credit: The scheme faces difficulties that must be resolved before it is rolled out
12 July, 2013
Nigel Keohane examines the government's Universal Credit scheme and points out five areas of concern
9 in 10 claimants 'not ready' for universal credit
11 July, 2013
New research by Citizens Advice shows nine out of 10 people are not ready for universal credit
Duncan Smith issues warning to payday lenders
11 July, 2013
Iain Duncan Smith has vowed action against payday loan companies who lend money to benefit claimants
Universal credit: National roll-out delayed, claims Labour
11 July, 2013
The national roll-out of the government's flagship universal credit scheme has been hit by fresh delays, Labour claims
LIN press release - Universal Credit will expand to 6 new Jobcentres starting from October 2013
10 July, 2013
Ministers set out the next stage of the roll out for Universal Credit following the successful launch in April
More trouble for IDS: how claimants are unprepared for Universal Credit
09 July, 2013
Ahead of Duncan Smith's grilling by MPs, a new study shows 92 per cent of claimants are unprepared for the new system in at least one area
Duncan Smith and Freud to face MPs on Universal Credit progress
09 July, 2013
UC architects Iain Duncan Smith and Lord Freud will face the Work and Pensions Select Committee on the government's revolution of the welfare system
Universal credit fears revealed through Citizens Advice survey
08 July, 2013
Survey conducted by charity suggests 90% of benefit claimants will be unprepared for new single payment benefits scheme
Wandsworth Council to partner with credit union to help residents cope with Universal Credit
04 July, 2013
Wandsworth Council has agreed to enter into partnership with a credit union to help its residents cope with Universal Credit
Government plans will draw more people into welfare system
04 July, 2013
A little-noticed effect of the government's universal credit scheme is that it draws more people into the benefit system
Direct Payment of Universal Credit to Landlords Provides Greatest Protection Against Arrears
02 July, 2013
The Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA) has welcomed the announcement
Freud Announces Universal Credit Protection for Tenants and Landlords
02 July, 2013
Protection for renters claiming Universal Credit and their landlords has been announced by the Minister for Welfare Reform Lord Freud
Universal Credit hits Wigan as 'slow, safe and controlled' roll-out continues
01 July, 2013
Universal Credit can now be claimed by people living in Wigan from today as the new benefits system continued its 'slow, safe and controlled roll-out'
Universal Credit roll-out progresses
01 July, 2013
Next step in the roll-out of Universal Credit and the reforms to the welfare system
LIN Press Release - Freud: Universal Credit protection for tenants and landlords
28 June, 2013
Universal Credit and Direct Payments information
Lord Freud offers new direct payment 'guarantees' to protect social landlords
27 June, 2013
Lord Freud today announced further concessions on Universal Credit direct payments as he sought to appease social landlords' concerns over the controversial policy
Freud: Universal Credit protection for tenants and landlords
27 June, 2013
Protection for renters claiming Universal Credit and their landlords was announced by the Minister for Welfare Reform Lord Freud
Benefit cap 'driving families from London'
26 June, 2013
The introduction of the benefit cap and direct payments of universal credit already appear to be driving some families from London
Universal Credit could cut poverty - but only if the government will spend money on it
24 June, 2013
Ask the government about the poverty impacts of its austerity programme and the answer is always the same: universal credit
LIN Member Report June 2013 - Still money to spare: how councils are failing to make the most of discretionary housing payments
21 June, 2013
This LIN member report is written by Neil Merrick
What do you know?
21 June, 2013
Universal credit has started. Claimants in Manchester are receiving payments right now
Cuts and bruises
21 June, 2013
Over the past two-and-a-half years, Inside Housing has carried many warnings about the likely dire impacts of welfare reform on tenants and social landlords
Welfare reform piles pressure on victims of domestic violence
20 June, 2013
The universal credit scheme risks putting women supported by refuges in debt, and threatens the survival of the refuge service
Plans to deduct rent arrears from benefits will not work says Landlord Action
18 June, 2013
Landlord Action has expressed concerns for both landlords and tenants over plans to deduct Universal Credit payments in order to recoup rent arrears
Universal Credit 'switchback' details published
13 June, 2013
The government has responded to a Communities and Local Government Select Committee report
Credit unions to take on payday lenders with higher cap on rates
13 June, 2013
Britain's credit unions will be allowed to increase the interest they charge on loans in a bid to stop people turning to payday lenders
Leeds council proposes plan to combat poverty and payday loans
13 June, 2013
More than 2,400 council tenants have fallen behind on their rent in Leeds since changes to housing benefit came into effect
Will £24 PCs help Britain's poor get online?
12 June, 2013
A new Microsoft-backed scheme is aiming to get the poorest Brits online by selling refurbished laptops and PCs for as little as £24
Majority of private landlords wary of Universal Credit
12 June, 2013
The majority of private landlords remain concerned about the impact that UC will have on the sector
Landlords Wary of Universal Credit
12 June, 2013
According to the latest research from the National Landlords Association, landlords remain concerned over the impact of Universal Credit
Tenants driven from private rented sector in anticipation of benefit cap
11 June, 2013
With just weeks to go before the benefit cap takes effect, landlords are locking out tenants supported by state benefits
Lord Freud exclusive: 'We are listening to social landlords on Universal Credit'
10 June, 2013
Minister for Welfare Reform Lord Freud says the Universal Credit demonstration projects have helped to shape new thinking around direct payments to tenants
Universal credit docked to recover rent arrears
10 June, 2013
A mechanism to automatically recover rent arrears is to be introduced alongside the direct payment of housing benefit to tenants
Housing group calls the Samaritans as welfare reforms take their toll
04 June, 2013
Housing group Riverside has enlisted the help of the Samaritans to train its customer service centre staff after an alarming jump in the number of calls from distressed tenants
UK faces European Court over benefits for EU nationals
31 May, 2013
The European Commission is taking the British government to court for alleged discrimination after it refused to pay welfare benefits
Incapacity benefit test claims 'conflated figures' - watchdog
31 May, 2013
Suggestions that 878,300 benefit claimants dropped their claims rather than take a medical test have been challenged by the statistics watchdog
Universal credit assessments are a recipe for confusion for leaseholders
22 May, 2013
Government guidance notes offer an insight into the startling complexity around how benefit assessments will be made
Universal credit assessments are a recipe for confusion for leaseholders
21 May, 2013
Government guidance notes offer an insight into the startling complexity around how benefit assessments will be made
The truth about universal credit
21 May, 2013
Universal Credit was officially launched on a very small scale at the end of last month in Ashton-under-Lyne in Lancashire
Universal credit landlord concerned by rising debt
20 May, 2013
The housing association at the heart of the first universal credit pathfinder has expressed concern about rising levels of tenant debt
Three top tips for creating a successful digital inclusion strategy
20 May, 2013
A strategy is crucial in combating digital exclusion, but what should be included and how can you make it work?
Universal Credit Local Support Services Framework
20 May, 2013
Message from Lord Freud, Minister for Welfare Reform
Universal Credit direct payment pilots to be extended for further six months
16 May, 2013
The Universal Credit direct payment demonstration projects will be extended for a further six months, Minister for Welfare Reform Lord Freud has announced
Seven million UK adults have never used internet
16 May, 2013
Office for National Statistics survey shows that those least likely to have gone online are the over-75s
Welsh Questions, TV's Michael Fabricant and sofabeds
15 May, 2013
Michael Fabricant found time in his busy schedule to drop in on Welsh Question Time
Universal Credit: Warning over online benefit claims
14 May, 2013
More than three quarters of benefit claimants in Scotland would struggle to apply for payments online
Three quarters of Scots could lose benefits because they can't use the internet
14 May, 2013
A worrying number of Scots claimants may miss out because of new rules forcing them to apply online
Scottish independence: Sturgeon says taxes would not rise to pay welfare bill
13 May, 2013
Taxes would not have to rise in an independent Scotland to pay for the SNP's welfare proposals
LIN Member Report May 2013 - Direct Payments to Tenants and the Impact on Rent Arrears
13 May, 2013
This LIN member report is written by Vivienne Ashley
Universal Credit toolkit for partner organisations
10 May, 2013
A toolkit to inform partner organisations about Universal Credit and to help them explain the changes to claimants
Westminster seals free internet deal
10 May, 2013
Westminster Council has signed a deal which will eventually roll out free internet access to more than 22,000 households
Will Universal Credit Work?
08 May, 2013
New report by Child Poverty Action Group and the TUC suggests that Universal Credit is in danger of failing to deliver on its key objectives
105,000 Scots to be hit by bedroom tax - new figures
07 May, 2013
More than 100,000 people living in Scotland will be affected by the bedroom tax
How the bedroom tax unfolds: the letters and home visits people are getting
07 May, 2013
We're talking to people who have been told they must pay the bedroom tax and we're following their stories, to see how this frightening tax unfolds
Family in fully occupied house hit by bedroom tax
07 May, 2013
A family say they are being asked to pay the controversial 'bedroom tax' - despite living with four children in a three bedroom house
Bedroom tax: Domestic violence victim may lose home after panic room is classed as spare bedroom
07 May, 2013
The mum-of-one was abused by the thug, also arrested for attempted murder of a police officer
New SSAC report recommends improvements for Universal Credit support
07 May, 2013
The Government is in the process of delivering the most far-reaching reform of the UK's social security system for 65 years
Landlords to get benefits of tenants in arrears
01 May, 2013
Payment of benefit will be switched back to social landlords when tenants accrue two months of arrears during universal credit 'pathfinders'
Universal Credit: Landlords to receive direct payments after two months of arrears
01 May, 2013
Housing benefit payments will be sent directly to landlords after tenants have gone into two months of arrears during the Universal Credit pathfinders
Teething troubles on day one of universal credit pilot scheme
30 April, 2013
At the town hall in Tameside, the first place to pilot the scheme, no claimants turned up in person on day one
Dorset Police issue warning to benefits cuts protesters
30 April, 2013
Dorset Police has warned organisers of a direct action campaign against government benefit cuts they may be breaking the law
Universal credit: Major benefits changes come into effect
30 April, 2013
A massive shake-up in the UK benefits system has begun, with the first claims being made for new universal credit payments
Universal Credit and Legal Aid Means Testing
29 April, 2013
Universal Credit becomes 'passporting' benefit from April 2013
Universal credit: Major benefits shake-up begins
29 April, 2013
A massive shake-up in the UK benefits system starts with the first claims being made for the new universal credit payment
Universal credit pilot to launch with only a few dozen claimants
29 April, 2013
Radical scaling back of pilot to include only most straightforward cases causes concern for charities and opposition parties
Universal credit: the essential guide
29 April, 2013
The flagship policy in the government's welfare reform programme is now being piloted & is due to go live nationally this October.
'Universal Credit to create average monthly rent arrears of £180'
29 April, 2013
The government's shake-up of the benefits system, Universal Credit will create average monthly rent arrears of £180, according to a law firm
Mothers and children lose out in benefit changes
29 April, 2013
Iain Duncan Smith's universal credit poses a serious threat to women's independence
Universal credit 'will destroy people'
29 April, 2013
A small number of benefit claimants in Greater Manchester will start to receive the new 'universal credit' from today
Universal Credit launches in Manchester
29 April, 2013
Universal Credit is launched in parts of the North-West
Government's Universal Credit system begins
29 April, 2013
The government's new Universal Credit system has begun to be rolled-out today, in four North West towns
Universal credit has great potential for positive social change
26 April, 2013
The architect of universal credit says local authorities must ask what role they can play in local welfare support
Coventry libraries' online time rises for welfare tests
22 April, 2013
The amount of free internet access in Coventry's libraries has been doubled to two hours because people were struggling to complete new welfare reform online assessments in an hour
Housing benefit change 'complete madness'
16 April, 2013
UK government changes to housing benefit are "complete madness", a Welsh government minister has told MPs
Benefits stigma in Britain - new Turn2us research
15 April, 2013
public vastly overestimated the numbers of people 'claiming falsely' or 'committing fraud'
Universal Credit: Majority of benefit claimants concerned about welfare reform
12 April, 2013
Up to 85% of benefit claimants are concerned about the introduction of Universal Credit, a new survey has revealed
Housing sector aiming to get tenants on the internet with 'Spring Online'
09 April, 2013
Housing providers across the UK are to help their tenants get internet access as they take part in this year's 'Spring Online' campaign
Live discussion: direct payment demonstration pilots
08 April, 2013
The government's pilot schemes have seen arrears double in the first four months, but what can be learned from the six schemes' progress so far?
Government pledges £400k universal credit IT cash
08 April, 2013
Social landlords can bid for a share of £400,000 government funding to help tenants improve their internet skills
A slice of life
08 April, 2013
Over the next year, Inside Housing will track the impact on their businesses and lives through this new welfare reform focus group
Discretionary Housing Payments Guidance Manual
05 April, 2013
April 2013 Good Practice Guide for DHP's
Housing benefit changes may prompt return of rent collectors
05 April, 2013
Nine in 10 housing professionals predict increased arrears under universal credit, requiring landlords to rethink rent collection methods
Strike a Digital Deal to help people get online
05 April, 2013
Social landlords are urged to bid for funding to design innovative projects to help their tenants get online with the launch of Digital Deal
Universal Credit: MPs raise fraud concerns
04 April, 2013
The government must give a "swift assurance" that the introduction of Universal Credit will not cause a rise in benefit fraud, MPs have said
Council tenants can rent out spare rooms
04 April, 2013
Social housing tenants will be allowed to make thousands of pounds by renting out their spare rooms and their benefits will be unaffected, ministers have admitted
Bedroom Tax: Some Home Truths
03 April, 2013
Bedroom tax could cost taxpayers more, not less, according to new NHF report
The Bedroom tax map of Britain: where will it hit hardest?
03 April, 2013
The National Housing Federation has worked out what this will mean per year for claimants in each constituency across the country
Universal Credit: MPs raise fraud concerns
03 April, 2013
The government must give a "swift assurance" that the introduction of Universal Credit will not cause a rise in benefit fraud
Universal Credit and future funding: social housing sector reveals its greatest fears
03 April, 2013
Housing associations are nearly as concerned with funding as they are with Universal Credit
An open letter to the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister about the impact of the bedroom tax on our tenants
03 April, 2013
Riverside Housing Association
Scottish government says law to prevent 'bedroom tax' evictions is unnecessary
02 April, 2013
The Scottish government has rejected Labour's call for emergency legislation to prevent tenants being evicted as a result of arrears caused by the so-called "bedroom tax".
Benefits reform trial scaled back
02 April, 2013
The government is to scale back some of its plans to test a radical new reform to the welfare system
Campaigners warn of IT risk of benefit changes
28 March, 2013
Benefit claimants who lack technology skills could lose out under planned changes to the benefits system, campaigners have warned.
Universal Credit - Pathfinder update
28 March, 2013
The DWP have confirmed that Universal Credit would start early in the Manchester and Cheshire areas from the end of April, before progressively rolling out nationally from October
Benefit changes: Who will be affected?
27 March, 2013
Hundreds of thousands of households across the UK will be affected by changes to benefits from April
Universal Credit toolkit for partner organisations
25 March, 2013
This toolkit is for organisations, particularly those in the Pathfinder locations, to inform them about Universal Credit and to help explain the changes that Universal Credit will bring
The Universal Credit Regulations 2013
22 March, 2013
Final Universal Credit regulations now published
Under-occupation of social housing: Housing Benefit entitlement
22 March, 2013
Parliamentary briefing
Ministers may increase direct payment exceptions
22 March, 2013
More people might be switched from direct payment of benefit under universal credit than ministers first thought, a civil servant has said
DWP and Treasury in standoff over £145 million Universal Credit fund
21 March, 2013
Millions of pounds of funding announced by the DWP for the creation of budgeting accounts may not be available after all
Budget 2013: What does it mean for you?
20 March, 2013
Chancellor George Osborne said his Budget would be "for people who work hard and aspire to get on"
London Assembly demands 'urgent review' of Universal Credit over direct payment fears
19 March, 2013
The London Assembly has called on the Mayor to launch an 'urgent review' of the potential impact on London of the Government's plans to change the way housing benefits are paid
Young social tenants get help with bedroom tax and benefits cap
19 March, 2013
Young social tenants are to receive help with money management ahead of the government's bedroom tax and benefits cap
Universal credit threatens eviction amnesty
19 March, 2013
Councils that have pledged not to evict tenants who run up arrears as a result of the government's 'bedroom tax' could struggle
Scots children 'should not miss out' on free school meals
19 March, 2013
Child poverty campaigners in Scotland have said that no one should miss out as a result of changes to the UK welfare system
How will the housing benefit changes work?
18 March, 2013
A forthcoming change in housing benefit rules has been dubbed the "bedroom tax" by Labour and, for many, the name has stuck
Council: no tenant to be evicted over bedroom tax
18 March, 2013
A council has declared that none of its social tenants will be evicted if they cannot afford to pay the government's forthcoming bedroom tax
Eviction fears over universal credit housing changes
18 March, 2013
The government says it'll empower tenants, but there's growing concern that changes to the way housing benefit works could lead to more evictions
Thousands protest against bedroom tax
18 March, 2013
Thousands of people have gathered at demonstrations across the UK to protest against the government's 'bedroom tax' penalty for under-occupation of social housing
Bedroom tax: drastic u-turns, partial concessions, and spin
15 March, 2013
The most significant - and potentially most politically damaging - bodyswerve on the bedroom tax this week was slipped out without fanfare
Birmingham landlord finds just 6% of tenants will downsize
15 March, 2013
A survey of residents by a Castle Vale Community Housing Association has found that only 6 per cent intend to move to a smaller house as a result of the 'bedroom tax'
Courts will fill up with tenants, lawyers warn
15 March, 2013
Lawyers expect courts to be inundated with 'thousands' of legal cases following the introduction of the government's 'bedroom tax' next month
Bedroom tax: why you should march against this heartless, pointless 'reform'
15 March, 2013
Mass evictions of the most vulnerable are no way to tackle the housing benefit bill, and we must do all we can to stop them
Foster carers with more than one child will still face 'bedroom tax'
14 March, 2013
Carers' exemption from under-occupancy charge does not extend to more than one 'spare bedroom', ministers reveal
Welsh seek control of welfare cuts support budget
14 March, 2013
The Welsh housing minister has called for the UK government to devolve discretionary housing payments to the Welsh administration
What will be the impact of the bedroom tax in Northern Ireland?
13 March, 2013
The Northern Ireland Housing Executive manages three-bedroom homes. It faces unique pressures over benefit reform
Bedroom tax 'in chaos' after Iain Duncan Smith announces exemptions
13 March, 2013
Work and pensions secretary says foster carers and parents with children in armed forces will not have to pay for spare bedrooms
Universal credit pilots issue digital access warning
13 March, 2013
Three projects testing aspects of the government's universal credit welfare reform have warned there are serious flaws in the way people access the scheme
IDS pledges to protect disabled children
12 March, 2013
The work and pensions secretary has pledged to protect disabled children who will be hit by the bedroom tax
Charity launches spare rooms campaign
12 March, 2013
Depaul UK is calling on UK households with spare rooms to offer them to homeless young people
Council's bedroom tax avoidance house swap event creates 200 viewing requests
12 March, 2013
Croydon Council's house swapping event has led to almost 200 requests to view properties.
LIN Press Release - Partial U-turn over bedroom tax
12 March, 2013
Partial U-turn over bedroom tax announced by Iain Duncan Smith
HB/CTB U2/2013
12 March, 2013
Housing and Council Tax Benefit Circular - Court of Appeal judgement: Burnip, Trengove and Gorry
Welfare reform trial sees rent arrears rise in Torfaen
11 March, 2013
Tenants in south Wales taking part in a trial of the UK government's benefits reforms have seen rent arrears rise seven-fold to £140,000 in seven months
Archbishop of Canterbury attacks Government welfare reforms
11 March, 2013
The Archbishop of Canterbury is supporting a campaign to derail a key part of the Government's welfare reforms
IDS on warpath after Archbishop attacks 'immoral' welfare reforms
11 March, 2013
Iain Duncan Smith has hit back after his welfare reform plans were attacked as "immoral" by the Archbishop of Canterbury
Scottish Government pledges £2.5 million support for households hit by bedroom tax
11 March, 2013
The Scottish government have announced £2.5 million in extra funding for social landlords to help their tenant cope with the bedroom tax and other welfare reforms
Occupancy Analyser
11 March, 2013
Wirral Partnership Homes has launched a new 'occupancy analyser' toolkit to help assess the financial impact of the bedroom tax on its future income
Three quarters of bedroom tax tenants won't move
11 March, 2013
Three quarters of tenants who will be affected by the bedroom tax would refuse to move even if smaller properties were available, according to research conducted by Aspire HA
80,000 People in London fall foul of Bedroom Tax
11 March, 2013
Thousands of low-income families across the capital will be forced to pay more rent or move out of their homes when the bedroom tax comes in according to NHF
Bedroom tax fact check
08 March, 2013
Following Prime Minister's Questions this article looks at the claims made about who will be exempt from the bedroom tax
Tenants asked to sign bedroom tax disclaimer
08 March, 2013
A Liverpool-based housing association is asking tenants to sign forms that say they accept they will be hit with legal action if they don't pay their rent as a result of the 'bedroom tax'
Orbit recycles hundreds of old computers to help tenants get online
08 March, 2013
Orbit Group is recycling hundreds of old computers to help tenants get online ahead of the government's imminent welfare reforms
Anger on the streets
08 March, 2013
Protests against the government's controversial bedroom tax are being staged across the country ahead of the policy's implementation on 1 April
Minister casts doubt on PM's housing benefit claim
08 March, 2013
A senior Conservative has cast doubt on claims by David Cameron that severely disabled children are exempt from what critics have dubbed the "bedroom tax"
'Bedroom tax will stop new homes being built'
07 March, 2013
The forthcoming bedroom tax will limit the amount of new homes social landlords are able to build, according to a speaker at a CIH South East Conference
'Under-occupancy charge is not a tax' says PM
07 March, 2013
The Prime Minister has been defending the coalition's "under-occupancy charge", which has been dubbed "bedroom tax", at Prime Ministers Questions
Welfare Reform Bill: the impact of underoccupation proposals on neighbourhoods
07 March, 2013
Housing Futures Network Report
Universal Credit: Proposal for Direct Payments trigger
07 March, 2013
CIH has joined forces with the National Housing Federation and Community Housing Cymru to advise the government
DWP sets date for national benefit cap roll-out
07 March, 2013
The national roll-out of the benefit cap will begin on 15th July announced the Department for Work and Pensions
Universal credit benefits system 'in meltdown', claims Labour
06 March, 2013
Labour claims work on universal credit system has been halted but DWP insists plans for April completion are still on course
Benefit changes: Residents look to 'swap properties'
06 March, 2013
People in Croydon who may lose out of benefits as the government changes its rules on spare bedrooms have said the changes will have a big impact on their lives
Bedroom tax to be introduced before legal challenge
06 March, 2013
A legal challenge to the government's penalty for the under-occupation of social housing will not go ahead until after the policy is introduced on 1 April
The perfect storm: 'There will be an almighty crash in the autumn'
05 March, 2013
The bedroom tax, the benefit cap, the new council tax regime and a range of other welfare cuts are upon us. Throw in cuts to legal aid, advice services and the state of the UK economy and we're faced with two powerful weather fronts and a hurricane
Digital access will make or break Universal Credit, say charities and HAs
05 March, 2013
Housing associations and policy consultants revealed their primary concern about Universal Credit to be access to computers and the internet for claimants
New bedroom tax figures show local impact
05 March, 2013
New figures estimating the numbers of people hit by the bedroom tax at constituency level have been released by the National Housing Federation
300% rise in demand for youth emergency accommodation
04 March, 2013
Depaul UK's campaign is calling on the 7.5 million households nationwide that have spare rooms to consider making it available to a young homeless person
Nationwide to stop lending to landlords with Local Housing Allowance tenants
01 March, 2013
Mortgage provider Nationwide, which provides mortgages for over a third of the buy-to-let market, has withdrawn from lending to new landlord customers with LHA tenants
Benefit cap will force more children to move schools mid-year, says thinktank
01 March, 2013
RSA warns that poorer children are more likely to have their education disrupted if they are forced out of affluent areas
'Bedroom tax' legal challenge
01 March, 2013
A disabled couple have gone to the High Court to take legal action against the Government's so-called bedroom tax
Exclusive: Benefit claimants offered £6,500 to move out
28 February, 2013
Labour-run Brent LBC will offer 150 benefit recipients with large families a one-off payment of £6,500 to move out of the borough, under a proposed £1m 'new start' scheme for those hit hard by welfare cuts
Rent arrears rise predicted by housing associations
28 February, 2013
The vast majority of Scotland's housing associations are predicting that rent arrears will rise next year because of changes to benefits
Welfare reforms could spark a decade of destitution
27 February, 2013
Universal credit could have helped reduce poverty, but its haphazard implementation alongside sweeping changes will put people and businesses at risk
Bedroom tax will cost taxpayers more
26 February, 2013
The coming bedroom tax will end up costing Scottish taxpayers more not less, Shelter Scotland has warned.
DWP: bedroom tax will not be changed
25 February, 2013
There will be no changes made to the bedroom tax according to the Department for Work and Pensions
Bedroom tax protestors joining 'benefit justice summit'
25 February, 2013
Tenants protesting against the bedroom tax and other welfare cuts are to join a 'benefit justice summit'
The bedroom tax ignores the link between home and health
25 February, 2013
The emotional costs of 'bedroom tax' could far exceed savings in housing benefits according to JRF
Coast & Country launches mass protest against the bedroom tax
25 February, 2013
Coast & Country is harnessing the voice of tens of thousands of social housing tenants from across the North East to launch a mass protest against the bedroom tax - speaker from LIN Director Claire Turner opens this event
Bedroom tax will hit poorer students
25 February, 2013
The bedroom tax could hit students already struggling to survive without financial support from their parents
Top tips: managing the bedroom tax in social housing
25 February, 2013
How can housing providers protect tenants and their bottom lines from the impact of the under-occupation penalty? Our experts share their advice
DWP rules out changes to bedroom tax
22 February, 2013
The Department for Work and Pensions has insisted there will be no change to the bedroom tax following reports that Iain Duncan Smith has asked officials to look at how the policy will affect disabled people
Home swap service to tackle welfare reform
22 February, 2013
Social landlords are to set up a national mobility scheme to help tenants move to avoid the impact of the government’s welfare reforms and to find work
Challenging Times, Changing Lives
22 February, 2013
Welfare reforms will fail to result in positive changes unless the government and social landlords increase support services for tenants, Riverside study warns
Charities say millions without internet access will face benefits struggle
22 February, 2013
Online-only Universal Credit system will come into force later this year following the closure of many advice centres
Analysing the impact of the UK Government's welfare reforms in Wales - stage 2
21 February, 2013
Ministerial Task and Finish Group on Welfare Reform stage 2 analysis
'Bedroom tax' rules re-examined
21 February, 2013
Welfare secretary Iain Duncan Smith has instructed officials to "look again" at how the "bedroom tax" will affect disabled people, the BBC has been told
Government backtracks on pensioner bedroom tax
21 February, 2013
The Department for Work and Pensions has pledged to protect some of the pensioners that could be hit by the bedroom tax
Southwark Council pilot findings cast doubt on viability of Direct Payment of benefits
21 February, 2013
A London council has projected it faces a rocketing £14 million increase in rent arrears once the direct payment of HB to tenants comes into effect later this year
Universal credit: more tenants face eviction and rent arrears
20 February, 2013
Emerging findings from direct payment pilots suggest vulnerable housing benefit claimants will struggle with new measures
Is the 'bedroom tax' fair?
20 February, 2013
MPs Helen Goodman and Richard Harrington debate whether people should have their benefits cut if they have a spare room
Free IT courses for Dale & Valley Homes' customers
19 February, 2013
Council tenants in Wear Valley are being offered the chance to learn computer skills for free
Government brings in trouble-shooter to get its Universal Credit benefits programme on track before launch
19 February, 2013
Government takes action after flagship programme is hit by death of IT head and other staff problems
Peers refuse to sanction criticism of universal credit
18 February, 2013
Peers have rejected a motion criticising universal credit as the Lords voted through regulations to introduce the flagship welfare reform policy
Councils must prepare for the unexpected as universal credit rolls out
18 February, 2013
Local authorities can't afford to employ more staff, but they must find a way to deal with increased contact from worried residents
LIN Press Release - Information on Direct payment of Universal Credit Housing costs direct to landlords
15 February, 2013
Universal Credit (UC) - Guidance on Personal Budgeting Support
Child poverty 'should be tackled not measured'
15 February, 2013
The government should focus less on how to measure child poverty and more on how to eradicate it, a leading children's charity has argued
LIN Member Report February 2013 - Universal Credit and its Implications on Rental Payments
15 February, 2013
This LIN member report is written by Leanne Tasker
Direct payments housing association: 'Welfare reforms could cost us £10m a year'
14 February, 2013
Wakefield and District HA who are taking part in the DWP Direct Payment demonstration projects says the Government's welfare reforms could end up costing it £10million a year
'Social landlords don't have to collect the bedroom tax'
14 February, 2013
Current claims that the bedroom tax will increase the housing benefit bill by forcing under occupiers into the private sector are one dimensional
Tenants get lessons in IT and savings
14 February, 2013
Whitefriars Housing has teamed up with Henley College and is giving its tenants lessons in IT and how to save and manage their money
Benefit cuts: London tenants told to move away from Capital
14 February, 2013
Camden council is considering shipping tenants that'll be hit by the coming benefit cuts as far away as Leicester and Birmingham
London council forced to move families away
14 February, 2013
A London council is considering moving up to 2,817 people miles out of the borough because benefit changes mean they will struggle to pay private sector rents
Thousands of carers set to lose benefits
13 February, 2013
Thousands of carers in England, Wales and Scotland are set to lose benefits when new disability-claim rules start
Room without review: Thoughts on tackling the bedroom tax
12 February, 2013
Report from nearlylegal - housing law, news and comment
Universal Credit - Local support services framework
11 February, 2013
The Local support services framework states it will be up to the DWP to make exceptions to normal payment rules such as paying the housing element of Universal Credit direct to landlords
LIN Press Release - Universal Credit (UC)
11 February, 2013
The local support services framework for the government's flagship welfare reform, Universal Credit, states it will be up to the DWP to make exceptions to normal payment rules such as paying the housing element of the credit to landlords
Would you like a new house in your life? Try speed dating
11 February, 2013
Housing associations in Bristol are inviting their tenants to a 'Speed Dating for Houses' event, in an effort to confront the coming 'bedroom tax'
Bedroom tax 'won't work in Liverpool'
11 February, 2013
The government's bedroom tax won't work in Liverpool, a housing association targeted by protestors has said
DWP insists universal credit plans are 'on track'
07 February, 2013
The Department for Work and Pensions has insisted its plans for universal credit are on track, despite criticism from MPs
Landlord calls for more advice on universal credit
07 February, 2013
Every benefit claimant moving on to universal credit should have a guarantee of face-to-face money advice
'Bedroom tax' will cost taxpayers more
06 February, 2013
The government's controversial new "bedroom tax" will cost rather than save money in parts of the country, it has been claimed
Universal Credit: 'Carefully selected' tenants struggling to cope with direct payments
06 February, 2013
Tenants taking part in the Government's 'direct payment' pilots are running up larger rent arrears than other families whose housing benefit is still paid straight to their landlord
'Bedroom tax': Carer criticises housing benefit cut
06 February, 2013
A man who gave up work to care for his sick wife is "disgusted" at the so-called "bedroom tax" which may see him lose £60 a month in housing benefit
Vulnerable claimants will get support they need under Universal Credit, Ministers tell select committee
05 February, 2013
Ministers reiterated their commitment to supporting vulnerable claimants in their response to the Work and Pensions Select Committee Report into Universal Credit today
Universal Credit implementation: Government response to the Work and Pensions Select Committee
05 February, 2013
On 5 February 2013, the Government published its response to the House of Commons Work and Pensions Select Committee report on Universal Credit implementation
Warning over 'bedroom tax' evictions
04 February, 2013
Tenants in social housing with a spare room could be facing a cut in housing benefit
Under-occupation and the new policy framework
04 February, 2013
Report by the Cambridge Centre for Housing & Planning Research
Benefits: How to claim your entitlement
30 January, 2013
How can you find out what benefits and tax credits you may be entitled to?
Rent cards could avoid direct payment problems
30 January, 2013
Housing benefit could be put on pre-payment cards to ensure it is spent on rent, a think tank has suggested
Going spare
29 January, 2013
With just 62 days left the bedroom tax has gone mainstream in parliament and the national press
Set in place solid foundations - Then tackle the myriad of welfare reforms
28 January, 2013
LIN complimentary report for landlords
Lord Freud: 3 million families will be better off under Universal Credit
28 January, 2013
Lord Freud will today deliver a speech at the Capita Group conference in London, in which he will give an update on the progress of Universal Credit
Freud: Direct payments will not reduce incomes
28 January, 2013
Lord David Freud said he does not expect landlords to 'suffer sudden losses of income' as a result of direct payment of benefit to tenants
The spare bedroom tax: a mess of contradiction and impossibility
28 January, 2013
In April the new 'spare bedroom tax' comes into force, meaning many low-income families and disabled people will be forced to move or face yet more cuts. The implications are frightening
Benefit cap 'driving families from London'
26 January, 2013
The introduction of the benefit cap and direct payments of universal credit already appear to be driving some families from London
landlords should get systems in place before Universal Credit
25 January, 2013
Here Claire Turner, director of LIN, argues that landlords should take steps to prepare for Universal Credit before payments are made direct to tenants
Extending labour market interventions to in-work claimants - call for ideas
25 January, 2013
DWP call for ideas seeks views on how DWP can support people in work and in receipt of UC to help them: Increase their earnings, Develop their skills and qualifications and Achieve financial independence
Evictions warning over housing benefit reforms
24 January, 2013
Changes to housing benefit later this year could lead to a rise in evictions, a key housing body has warned
Millions to struggle with rents under welfare reforms
24 January, 2013
A million people living in social housing could struggle with their rent and end up in debt as a result of the Government's welfare shakeup
People and households claiming Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment and other benefits
23 January, 2013
Department for Work and Pensions Official Statistics Consultation
Universal Credit: part-timers to get monthly statements and texts from DWP
22 January, 2013
The DWP might start sending part-time workers claiming UC, monthly statements & texts to tell them how much better off they could be if they increased their hours
MPs debate impact of 'bedroom tax' changes in Wales
22 January, 2013
MPs will discuss the impact of a so-called "bedroom tax" which will impose an under-occupancy penalty on tenants
Planned 1% benefits rises cap backed by MPs
22 January, 2013
Labour MPs have failed to block controversial plans to cap working-age benefit rises at 1% as the proposals passed through the House of Commons
Workers who claim benefits told to increase hours or lose universal credit
22 January, 2013
Part-time workers could receive monthly statements telling them how much better off they would be if they increased hours
Who will speak up for the universal welfare state now?
22 January, 2013
With even some on the left calling for an end to winter fuel payments and the like, it is time to go back to first principles
DWP information bulletin on Universal Credit
21 January, 2013
Part-time workers could receive monthly statements and texts telling them how much better off they would be if they increased their hours under Universal Credit
Benefits and child credits squeeze pushes 200,000 children into poverty
18 January, 2013
Government admits statistic that Labour says shows children are victims of Tory 'games' and 'economic failure'
Councils protest at benefit cap switch
18 January, 2013
Councils being hit first by the benefits cap plan to lobby the government over fears they will be disadvantaged by the surprise move
Landlord to host 'soap opera' about benefit changes
17 January, 2013
New Charter Homes is turning its offices into the venue for a 'soap opera' to help tell tenants about important changes to their welfare benefits
LIN Member Report January 2013 - Universal Credit - The Key Differences - Information for Landlords
17 January, 2013
This LIN member report is written by Peter Hall
Benefits reform 'to force 1 in 4 into poverty'
14 January, 2013
One in four Scots will be living in poverty by the end of the decade if the coalition government forges ahead with 'criminal welfare reforms'
The direct payment guinea pigs
11 January, 2013
Inside Housing examines the results of six pilot projects, which have been testing the new system since June, to find out what landlords can expect
High childcare costs making it impossible for families to escape poverty
09 January, 2013
The Government should increase the proportion of childcare costs covered through Universal Credit from 70 to 80% to help poorer families, a new report claims
LIN Member Reprot January 2013 - Universal Credit Service Charges
09 January, 2013
DWP guidance for landlords
LIN Press release - Universal Credit Service Charges
09 January, 2013
Universal Credit service charges - guidance for landlords
DWP Digital Strategy
08 January, 2013
The DWP Digital Strategy sets out how the Department will become digital by default, by developing high quality digital services which people prefer to use
Message to private landlords: give universal credit a chance
08 January, 2013
The government's new benefits system is dreaded by landlords, but it has the potential to improve the process for all
Tenants urged to bank on landlord to help pay rent as benefits changes loom
08 January, 2013
Bradford's biggest social housing group is offering thousands of tenants a cash incentive to join a credit union to try to safeguard their benefit payments
Labour urges temporary jobs for long-term unemployed
04 January, 2013
Labour has said it would offer the long-term unemployed a guarantee of a six-month job if it was in government
Measures to reduce Housing Benefit expenditure - an overview
03 January, 2013
Briefing by the Libraries of the House of Commons and House of Lords and the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology
Paying the housing element of Universal Credit direct to tenants in social rented housing
03 January, 2013
Briefing by the Libraries of the House of Commons and House of Lords and the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology
LIN Memebr Report January 2013 - The Household Benefit Cap
03 January, 2013
Briefing by the Libraries of the House of Commons and House of Lords and the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology
Battle over plan to cap benefits ahead of Commons vote
02 January, 2013
It is unfair for benefits to rise at a faster rate than wages, the work and pensions secretary has said ahead of a key Commons vote on capping benefits
Battle over plan to cap benefits ahead of Commons vote
02 January, 2013
It is unfair for benefits to rise at a faster rate than wages, the work and pensions secretary has said ahead of a key Commons vote on capping benefits
DWP confirms benefit cap to be trialled in 4 London boroughs
21 December, 2012
The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed that the benefits cap will be introduced across four London boroughs in April
Tenants handed computers in Christmas giveaway
21 December, 2012
Newlon Fusion, the community arm of Newlon Housing Trust is presenting tenants with computers and training as part of work to prepare for the impact of welfare reforms
Editor's blog: my Christmas wish is for housing to find a voice on welfare
21 December, 2012
Latest evidence on rent arrears under universal credit is damning, but next analysis will come too late
Benefit Cap implementation
20 December, 2012
The Department for Work and Pensions today confirmed the four London local authorities where the Benefit Cap roll out will start in April
Direct payment projects warn of creeping arrears
18 December, 2012
The creeping of arrears in the direct payment demonstration projects is further evidence landlords will need to provide a range of payment options
Direct Payment projects: Rent worth more than £500,000 not collected
17 December, 2012
More than £500k of rent was not collected by RSL's and LA's during the first four months of the Government's Direct Payment Demonstration Projects
Housing provider's adviser army to prepare 1000s of tenants for welfare reform
17 December, 2012
A housing provider is sending out an army of advisers to inform its tenants about the Government's imminent welfare reforms
LIN Press release - Direct payment pilots report increased arrears
17 December, 2012
Landlords testing direct payment of benefit failed to collect 8 per cent of rent on average in the first four months of the six pilot projects
Criticism prompts universal credit changes
13 December, 2012
The Department for Work and Pensions has re-drafted universal credit regulations in response to sector concerns about service charges
Universal Credit: 2 million will be better off refusing work
13 December, 2012
More than two million people will be better off if they refuse extra work under Iain Duncan Smith's flagship reforms to welfare
Existing claimants protected under universal credit
12 December, 2012
The Department for Work and Pensions has insisted no households currently claiming benefit will lose out under universal credit
DWP: Direct Payments Demonstration Projects: Findings from a baseline survey of tenants in five project areas in England and Wales
10 December, 2012
DWP Demonstration Project report
Direct payments will require landlord to collect extra £23m a year
10 December, 2012
Golden Gates has warned that the move to pay housing benefit directly to tenants as part of UC will require it to collect an extra £23m each year
Latest on Universal Credit
10 December, 2012
10 December 2012 - Universal Credit and related regulations laid before Parliament
Direct payment to cost pilot landlord £8 million a year
07 December, 2012
The Department for Work and Pensions has insisted its plans for direct payment of benefit will proceed despite a landlord on a pilot project claiming the policy will cost it £8 million a year
Autumn statement: what it means for housing
29 November, 2012
Find out all about the autumn statement, what it means for the sector and what we expect
DWP IT system causes benefit data backlog
26 November, 2012
Concerned councils left overloaded by system crucial to government welfare reforms
Quarter of tenants need help with universal credit
26 November, 2012
Around a quarter of social tenants will need support with the switch to universal credit if they are to avoid financial risk
Getting the design of Universal Credit right now is critical to its success
23 November, 2012
Responding to the DWP select committee report, 'Universal Credit implementation: meeting the needs of vulnerable claimants', CIH urges government to take note of the findings in the report
PDF: Making work pay: Universal credit and low income working households
23 November, 2012
Making work pay considers whether low income working households will be better off under universal credit than the current benefits system
Universal Credit Reforms Going Too Far, Too Fast
23 November, 2012
A report published today warns that significant concerns remain about the potential impact of the Universal Credit changes on some of the most vulnerable benefit claimants
Universal Credit inquiry echoes findings from direct payments trials
23 November, 2012
Landlords will need to provide a range of payment options for their tenants to help safeguard their rental income under Universal Credit, writes Nick Peplow, business development director at allpay
Landlords back MPs' call to delay direct payments under Universal Credit
23 November, 2012
Housing associations have backed a call from MPs to delay the direct payment of housing benefit to social tenants under Universal Credit
Welfare reform and not paying the rent
23 November, 2012
Government plans to change the way social housing tenants pay their rent, could have serious consequences for some of the poorest people in Britain
Universal Credit implementation: meeting the needs of vulnerable claimants
23 November, 2012
Work and Pensions Committee - Third Report
Poorest 400,000 families worse off under universal credit, finds report
22 November, 2012
Chartered Institute of Housing says lone-parent households, those on minimum wage and officially in poverty will lose out
'Bedroom tax' dilemma for social housing tenants
20 November, 2012
Research seen by the BBC suggests almost 95,000 people in England could be forced into arrears because there are no smaller homes for them to move into
Social tenants' finances and vulnerability to direct payments
20 November, 2012
NHF report which identifies those who will struggle with move to Universal Credit
Cable defends 'immoral' benefit cap
19 November, 2012
Vince Cable has defended the coalition government's £26,000-a-year benefits cap following criticism from a high profile Liberal Democrat colleague.
Young benefit claimants must do 30 hours of weekly 'community work'
15 November, 2012
A new mandatory scheme designed to get young people off of benefits has been announced by Mark Hoban, the employment minister
Freud admits reforms could force families to move
15 November, 2012
The minister for welfare reform Lord David Freud has admitted that a reduced cap on housing benefit could force families in high-value areas to move
Universal credit 'will not benefit everyone'
14 November, 2012
The government's new universal credit will penalise some single parents if they work longer hours, according to a new report
Universal Credit: Timeline for switching existing claimants 'unchanged', says DWP
14 November, 2012
DWP says the timeline for bringing existing benefit claimants on to Universal Credit “remains unchangedâ€, following rumours of delays in the national press
Government claim that universal credit will always make work pay for single parents is at risk of failure, new research shows
13 November, 2012
Universal credit will fail to provide all working single parent families with a route out of poverty, and act as a disincentive to work longer hours for some
Benefits reform under threat after IT glitch
12 November, 2012
National roll-out of flagship policy delayed by at least a year as costs soar and key personnel quit
Cutting housing benefit for under-25s 'is unworkable and irresponsible'
12 November, 2012
Crisis says move to save £1.8bn risks condemning thousands of vulnerable young people to homelessness
McCausland rules out call for six-month freeze on government's 'bedroom tax'
12 November, 2012
Northern Ireland's social development minister has ruled out any postponement of the "bedroom tax", due to be introduced in April next year
RLA/SAL Universal Credit Survey
09 November, 2012
Landlords in the PRS have rejected the Government's welfare reform plans for HB, and point to a lack of housing in the sector to cope with the Government's changes
HB Direct
09 November, 2012
November 2012 - includes information on Council Tax Support, Supported 'exempt' accommodation and Universal Credit, Temporary accommodation, Universal Credit and the HB Direct pilots
Knock, knock
09 November, 2012
Who's there? This is the question Aspire Housing is asking tenants during visits to their homes to find out who will be hit by the bedroom tax next April
Direct payment tenants taken to court
08 November, 2012
One of the HA's involved in the Government's direct payment demonstration projects has warned social landlords to get strict with their arrears policy ahead of UC
DWP replaces Universal Credit programme director
08 November, 2012
The DWP has replaced the man heading up the Universal Credit programme but insisted the project is still on time and on budget
£5.67: the value of £1 spent on confidence and skills for tenants
08 November, 2012
With the Social Value Act coming into force next year, housing associations are fighting to prove their financial worth
Iain Duncan Smith: direct payments to remain for refuges
07 November, 2012
Work and pensions secretary Iain Duncan Smith has told MPs that domestic violence victims will see their housing benefit paid directy to their refuge under Universal Credit
Universal Credit: 'It's not too late to get it right'
07 November, 2012
Without urgent changes to Universal Credit, the Government risks undermining its own reforms, according to a new report supported by the JRF
The cost of running a home
06 November, 2012
A guide from Wolverhampton Homes which aims to give an idea of those costs that tenants will have to budget for when running their own home
Between a rock and a hard place - the early impacts of Welfare Reform on London
06 November, 2012
CPAG Report
The best of British banking
06 November, 2012
A report by Accent on basic bank accounts for Consumer Focus
PDF: Lost benefits - An article from February 2004
05 November, 2012
Disturbing results from a trial of direct housing benefit payments mean the government should think long and hard before applying the reform to the social sector
Bedroom Tax Guidance
05 November, 2012
CIH Scotland - This practice guidance is aimed primarily at Scottish social landlords - i.e. local authority landlords and registered social landlords
April is the cruellest month
05 November, 2012
Every time you think you have got your head around the impact of the April 2013 welfare changes you realise you have forgotten something that makes it even worse
Evaluation of the Direct Payment Demonstration Projects- Emerging Learning
02 November, 2012
This is the second report in this series
NIFHA calls for bedroom tax delay
02 November, 2012
The Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Associations has called for a six month postponement to the introduction of the under-occupation penalty
Landlords plan bank account
02 November, 2012
A group of Greater Manchester landlords is working with local credit unions to set up a new type of bank account to help thousands of tenants who could be made worse off by welfare reform
Direct payments landlord wants policy u-turn
02 November, 2012
The CEX of Wakefield and District Housing who are involved in the Government's direct payment demonstration projects says he hopes the results will change policy to allow tenants to retain the choice to have HB paid to their landlord
Council stands to lose £70m in welfare shake-up
01 November, 2012
One of England's largest local authorities stands to lose £70m over the next five years as its tenants feel the brunt of welfare cuts
No regrets, says direct payments landlord
31 October, 2012
Family Mosaic says it's pleased it's taken part in the Direct Payment demonstration project as it has given it a better understanding of how to prepare itself and its tenants ahead of UC
Housing associations and provision for destitute migrants
31 October, 2012
Social landlords can take advantage of a pack that has been launched to prevent migrants being homeless
Tenants using range of payment options in Universal Credit trial
31 October, 2012
Tenants involved in the Government's direct payment demonstration projects are preferring to use a range of options to pay their rent, according to the DWP
Implementing Universal Credit: will the reforms improve the service for users?
30 October, 2012
Report by CESI
Universal Credit a 'potential poverty trap'
30 October, 2012
Universal Credit has major flaws that will need to be addressed to avoid becoming a potential poverty trap, a new report has concluded
DWP issues warnings to households in benefit cap hotspots
30 October, 2012
Nearly 89,000 households across Great Britain may be affected by next April's household benefit cap, with 42% living in social housing, according to the DWP
DWP holds back data on direct payment pilots
30 October, 2012
The Department for Work and Pensions has insisted tenants are ready to manage their own money but is not yet releasing data from its direct payment pilot projects
Freud: Universal Credit switch will be simple for most - but we must prepare early
30 October, 2012
New research shows the majority of claimants are ready to manage their own money, including paying their rent direct to landlords, ahead of Universal Credit, Lord Freud the Minister for Welfare Reform announced today.
Universal Credit: without urgent changes the Government risks undermining its own reforms
30 October, 2012
The Government's arguments for welfare reform are well rehearsed
Monitoring the impact of recent measures affecting Housing Benefit and Local Housing Allowances in the private rented sector in Northern Ireland
29 October, 2012
Research on Northern Ireland's private rented sector housing market
Lord Freud told to explain 'unique circumstances' of direct payments concession
29 October, 2012
A Labour MP has called for an urgent debate or statement from Lord Freud as to why he has let tenants in Northern Ireland continue to have HB paid directly to their landlord under UC
Localising support for council tax: Re-stated default scheme universal credit provisions
29 October, 2012
Re-stated default scheme universal credit provisions taking into account minor amendments/simplifications since the July 2012 publication
Localising support for council tax: Explanatory note on re-stated default scheme universal credit provisions
29 October, 2012
Explanatory note on re-stated default scheme universal credit provisions, detailing how these support work incentives and take into account minor amendments/simplifications since the July 2012 publication
IDS plans 'two-child' family benefit cap
26 October, 2012
Families claiming child-related benefits may find the amount they are entitled to capped at two children, the work and pensions secretary said today
Are banks turning their backs on state-sponsored Universal Credit accounts?
26 October, 2012
It appears not all is going to plan with the DWP's attempts to get a national payment supplier to offer 'budgeting accounts' for Universal Credit claimants
Lib Dems will not back child benefits cap
26 October, 2012
The Liberal Democrats will not back a call from the work and pensions secretary to cap child-related benefits for families with more than two children
Millions set aside to cover welfare costs
26 October, 2012
The UK's largest landlords are stockpiling cash in preparation for next year's onslaught of welfare reforms
Legal aid cuts 'will exacerbate benefit delays'
26 October, 2012
Charities have warned that delays in transferring successful asylum seekers from Home Office support to mainstream benefits could get worse when legal aid cuts kick in next year
No welfare concessions for Scotland and Wales
26 October, 2012
The Scottish and Welsh governments are unlikely to gain concessions on welfare reform, despite Northern Irish politicians successfully challenging the changes
Universal Credit: Northern Ireland to continue direct payments to landlords
23 October, 2012
Tenants in Northern Ireland will still be able to have their housing costs paid directly to their landlord, it has been announced
Housing benefit limit only for future claimants
22 October, 2012
Plans to end housing benefit for under-25s would only apply to new claimants, the Department for Work and Pensions has said
Home Truths 2012: the housing market in England
22 October, 2012
This National Housing Federation report says that by the next election one million earners will be dependent on welfare to afford rent
Workers will have to run down savings for Universal Credit, warns think tank
19 October, 2012
A think tank has warned how Universal Credit will penalise working families who have saved for their futures
Minister's domestic abuse warning about welfare reforms
19 October, 2012
Welfare reforms could make it harder for female victims of domestic abuse to leave violent partners, according to Welsh government minister
Industry pans payment control
19 October, 2012
Plans to introduce pre-payment cards to restrict how groups of people spend their benefit money risk stigmatising claimants, housing organisations have warned
Is the benefit system too baffling to be solved?
18 October, 2012
Simplifying welfare is a top government priority. But why are benefits so baffling?
Tenants 'not confident' about direct payments
18 October, 2012
One in three social housing tenants on benefit are not confident they can keep up to date with rental payments if they receive their benefit direct, a report has found
Cameron 'standing up for wrong people' in benefit cuts row
18 October, 2012
David Cameron has been accused of "standing up for the wrong people" as charities warn that up to half a million disabled people will be worse off under Universal Credit
Holes in the Safety Net: The impact of Universal Credit on disabled people and their families
17 October, 2012
A report by the Children's Society, Citizens Advice and Disability Rights UK says 100,000 households with children could have incomes reduced by up to £28pw
Council offering £25k payout to tenants who downsize homes
17 October, 2012
Camden Council is offering up to £25k for tenants to downsize to smaller homes
Lords fear bedroom tax will hurt disabled tenants
17 October, 2012
Peers have raised concerns about the impact of the bedroom tax on disabled people - and said discretionary housing payments will do little to help the problem
Optimising welfare reform outcomes for social tenants
16 October, 2012
Understanding the financial management issues for different tenant groups - report by Policis
LIN Member Report October 2012 - How to tackle under-occupation
15 October, 2012
This LIN member report is written by Rebecca Wilkie.
120,000 troubled families could be legally banned from spending benefits on alcohol and tobacco
15 October, 2012
Troubled families living on benefits will be legally barred from spending welfare money on alcohol and tobacco, under plans being drawn up in Whitehall
Universal Credit: The benefit cut for workers that has 'escaped notice'
15 October, 2012
A Labour MP has hit out at plans to dock the benefits of workers under Universal Credit which he says has almost "escaped notice".
Q&A;: Universal Credit and the benefits overhaul
10 October, 2012
The NI Assembly is debating the Welfare Reform Bill which is set to mark the biggest overhaul of the benefits system since the 1940s - BBC news item
Technology could limit how benefits are spent
10 October, 2012
Think tank Demos has called for the government to use new technology to control how people spend their benefit
Osborne's housing benefit proposals 'will hit families with children hardest'
09 October, 2012
Charities say impact of cutting housing benefit for under-25s would be to discourage mobility and increase homelessness
Conservative conference: Welfare needs 'cultural shift'
09 October, 2012
The government will bring about a "complete cultural shift" in its efforts to end reliance on benefits, Iain Duncan Smith has promised
Tory MP outlines exemptions to under-25s benefit cut
09 October, 2012
Plans to stop under-25s claiming housing benefit would not affect anyone coming out of care or fleeing domestic violence, a parliamentary aide has clarified
Benefit pilot avoids arrears
08 October, 2012
A Scottish housing association claims to have so far avoided arrears in its universal credit direct payment pilot by not insisting on direct debits
Transforming Childcare, Changing Lives: Making sure that work pays
08 October, 2012
A position paper by the Centre for Social Justice
George Osborne in £10bn benefit cut vow
08 October, 2012
Chancellor George Osborne will tell the Tory conference that the government is determined to cut a further £10bn from the benefits budget to fight the deficit
Anger mounts as chancellor commits Tories to £10bn of welfare cuts
08 October, 2012
Chancellor George Osborne has confirmed the Conservative Party's pledge to find £10bn of welfare savings by the first full year of the next Parliament, despite warnings from charities and housing providers
Cut rents, not benefits, Tories told
08 October, 2012
A politician has warned that further cuts to welfare for young Londoners could exacerbate rising homelessness and harm the economy
Bedroom tax: concern over homeless lodger scheme
05 October, 2012
Crawley BC has played down concerns tenants will be forced to take in a homeless lodger in its bid to mitigate the impacts of the Government's under-occupation penalties
HB Direct
05 October, 2012
October 2012 - includes information about welfare reforms and the benefit cap
Public want controls on benefit spending
04 October, 2012
The majority of the public want benefit spend monitored, according to a recent poll
Labour considers curbs on universal benefits to pay for social care
04 October, 2012
Pensions and winter fuel allowance of the better-off may be cut as party tries introduces new 'one nation' concept
Housing association steps up interventions on direct payment project
03 October, 2012
One of the HA's involved in the Government's direct payment demonstration projects says more interventions are being taken to collect unpaid rent
Housing associations call on DWP to answer 'big questions' on supported housing
03 October, 2012
The National Housing Federation is calling on the Government to answer the "big questions" on the future of housing benefit for supported housing
'Cack-handed' delivery threatens universal credit
03 October, 2012
Shadow employment minister Stephen Timms has slammed the government's welfare reform programme
Changes to Jobseeker's Allowance sanctions from 22 October 2012
02 October, 2012
The new regulations introduce a regime of fixed period sanctions, to replace the existing sanction rules and move claimants closer to the sanction regime planned for Universal Credit
Welfare changes could restrict volunteering, warns Volunteering England
02 October, 2012
Volunteering England has voiced concern about the intention under universal credit to restrict the number of hours someone can volunteer
Universal Credit could exclude people without Internet access
01 October, 2012
People with little or no IT skills could have difficulty applying for the UK Government's new Universal Credit
Universal Credit: Claimants could keep fortnightly payments for two years
28 September, 2012
Welfare reform minister Lord Freud says Universal Credit claimants could keep fortnightly payments for up to two years with their cases reviewed periodically
Welfare bill could lead to increase in homeless
27 September, 2012
People on benefits could be made homeless if housing payments are no longer made directly to landlords as part of the proposed welfare reforms, an MLA has warned
Universal Credit regulations date
26 September, 2012
Ministers have confirmed that Universal Credit regulations will be laid after the Chancellor of the Exchequer's Autumn Statement on 5 December
Universal Credit Announcements
26 September, 2012
In a letter to the SSAC the DWP has confirmed that initially exempt accommodation cases will still be handled as part of HB rather than as part of universal credit housing costs
Universal credit to exclude supported housing costs
25 September, 2012
Homelessness charities have welcomed a decision by the Department for Work and Pensions to exclude supported accommodation from universal credit
Iain Duncan Smith: Universal Credit 'about positive incentives'
21 September, 2012
Iain Duncan Smith says that the changes were about "improving incomes for people who are doing the right thing" and providing "positive incentives"
Iain Duncan Smith: Universal Credit 'not about cuts'
21 September, 2012
Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith denied that the plans were a cover for cuts, and said they would provide "positive incentives" for workers
Government eyes end to benefits and inflation link
21 September, 2012
The government is considering ending the automatic annual increase in benefits in line with inflation
Burgess vows to mitigate impact of welfare reforms
21 September, 2012
The new Scottish housing and welfare minister has vowed to help the poorest members of society cope with reforms to the benefits system which 'threaten to hit Scots hard'
Lord Freud: Supported housing 'won't be roped into Universal Credit'
20 September, 2012
Lord Freud has said that exempt supported accommodation "won't be roped into Universal Credit"
LIN Press release - Update on Universal Credit
20 September, 2012
Update on Universal Credit - includes information on supported housing, UC payment frequency, self-employed and budgeting accounts
Housing association warns sector after direct payments blow
19 September, 2012
Payment errors in the first 2 months of a project to pay tenants HB directly has seen a HA warn the sector over the importance of communication with LA's, residents and the DWP
Universal Credit: Freud lays down criteria for new bank accounts
19 September, 2012
Ministers are calling for a range of suppliers to explore the feasibility of new financial products to help benefit claimants budget and manage their money under Universal Credit
Cyberfraud threatens welfare reform, warns minister
19 September, 2012
Online security risks pose serious threat to government's universal credit welfare reform, says Lord Freud
Freud: New financial products to help Universal Credit claimants manage money
18 September, 2012
Ministers are calling for a range of suppliers to explore the feasibility of new financial products to help benefit claimants budget and manage their money
New monthly universal credit scheme to go ahead, says IDS
18 September, 2012
One of the biggest attempted reforms of Britain's welfare system will go ahead according to the Gov's timetable despite a host of warnings about what could go wrong
DWP clarifies advance payments' for Universal Credit claimants
18 September, 2012
Welfare reform minister Lord Freud says benefit claimants used to being paid fortnightly will be able to opt in for an advance payment to bridge them on to the monthly system of Universal Credit
Welfare reform is not ready and should be delayed for a year, says Labour
17 September, 2012
Opposition attacks universal credit scheme for having too many unresolved problems ahead of planned launch in 2013
Top tips: improving digital inclusion
17 September, 2012
Comments from the Guardians discussion on how housing can get residents online
The housing benefits cap means a wretched life for thousands in B&Bs;
17 September, 2012
Iain Duncan Smith's welfare reform will leave families already on the lowest housing rung with nowhere to go
Universal credit timetable 'on track and on time'
17 September, 2012
Downing Street has dismissed calls to delay the introduction of the universal credit benefit system
Iain Duncan Smith moots plan to reshuffle benefits staff
14 September, 2012
Some of the 20,000 HB staff under threat by the forthcoming Universal Credit system could be found new roles dealing with Council Tax Benefit
DWP urged to subsidise new bank accounts ahead of Universal Credit
14 September, 2012
The Government should create a set of standards for 'Budget Accounts' (jam jars) - which safeguard rental income for housing associations according to new report
IDS refuses to publish Universal Credit business case
14 September, 2012
Labour's shadow work and pensions secretary Liam Byrne has criticised Iain Duncan Smith for refusing to publish the full plans behind Universal Credit
LIN Member Report September 2012 - Case Study - Helping Landlords to prepare for Welfare Reform
13 September, 2012
This LIN member report is written by Claire Turner and Peter Hall
Landlord fears Universal Credit could deter self-employed
12 September, 2012
A housing association has warned the Government that strict new rules for Universal Credit could "totally undermine" efforts by landlords to support residents starting up their own businesses
IDS to look at 'social housing broadband tariff' for Universal Credit
12 September, 2012
Iain Duncan Smith says the Government will explore a 'social housing broadband tariff' to enable those to claim the new Universal Credit online
Ministers explore 'social housing tariff' for internet
12 September, 2012
The government will examine ways of introducing cut price internet access for social tenants as part of the roll out of universal credit
The Parent Trap: Childcare cuts under Universal Credit
11 September, 2012
The Children's Society has published a report raising concerns about the impact of the loss of support with childcare costs through Housing Benefit under Universal Credit
IDS urged to come clean on 'secret business case' behind Universal Credit
11 September, 2012
Work and pensions secretary Iain Duncan Smith says the Government has "absolutely nothing to hide" around the cost of implementing Universal Credit
Housing association boss becomes credit union chair
11 September, 2012
The chief executive of a housing association has been appointed the chair of a credit union and plans to use his organisation's own resources to grow the union and expand its services
Universal credits and changes to benefit claims debate
11 September, 2012
The row over the new universal credits - with a government bid to simplify benefits - saw Welfare Secretary Iain Duncan Smith face questions from MPs in the Commons
Fortnightly payments to stay under universal credit
11 September, 2012
Benefits will continue to be paid fortnightly under the government's welfare reforms if recipients are unable to manage monthly budgeting
Editorial: Welfare reform cannot be an excuse for cuts
11 September, 2012
Moving from fortnightly to monthly benefit payments could increase the grip of pay-day loan skills on those in society who lack budgeting skills says this Independent editorial item
Housing associations talking to DWP over 'benefit verifier' role
10 September, 2012
Places for People and several other large housing associations have been in talks with the DWP about joint-working initiatives to smooth the roll-out of UC next year
Newham fears benefit cap blow for temporary households
10 September, 2012
The London borough of Newham wants the Government to drop planned restrictions on councils housing families outside of their area
Fears raised over digital benefits
10 September, 2012
MPs have been warned that people from disadvantaged backgrounds may suffer if the government pushes ahead with plans to digitise the benefits system
Universal credit scheme will rot soul of low-paid, says Frank Field
10 September, 2012
Government's poverty tsar says welfare reform programme is 'practically unachievable' and heading for disaster
It Shouldn't Happen Here
06 September, 2012
Parents go hungry to feed children, according to research from Save The Children
Housing association offers £10,000 to release spare bedrooms
06 September, 2012
To tackle the bedroom tax, Viridian has introduced an incentive scheme helping under-occupiers switch accommodation.
Plans to move Iain Duncan Smith is hardly reassuring for housing associations
05 September, 2012
According to reports, IDS was offered the Ministry of Justice role, with the Government keen on the hard-line approach of Chris Grayling to spearhead its further assault on the welfare bill
'Spare room tax' will affect disabled people says Bromford Group
04 September, 2012
People with disabilities in the West Midlands could be severely affected by changes to the benefits system, warns Bromford Group
Gingerbread report - Unintended consequences
04 September, 2012
New Gingerbread research shows that poorest working families will have any increase in income reduced by 65 per cent
Freud announces successful Local Authority led Universal Credit pilots
03 September, 2012
The DWP has named the local authorities that will pilot support for Universal Credit claimants ahead of its implementation next October
NHF commissions welfare reform study
03 September, 2012
The NHF has commissioned Ipsos Mori & Cambridge University to carry out a sector-wide assessment of how the gov's welfare changes will hit landlords and their tenants
Fear of poverty: just like it was in 1912?
27 August, 2012
Living in cuts-and-austerity Britain is generating the same anxieties as those expressed by the Edwardian poor, claims the Salvation Army
Landlords pay tenants to open 'jam jar' accounts
24 August, 2012
Housing associations are paying tenants to open credit union accounts to protect their rental income from forthcoming welfare reforms.By encouraging tenants to open 'jam jar' accounts the organisations hope to ease the impact of the universal credit, which will be phased in from October 2013.
Beating the bedroom tax
23 August, 2012
Landlords will do what they can to help under-occupying tenants, but concerns remain for disabled tenants
Social tenants to accept bedroom tax penalty
22 August, 2012
Nearly half of social tenants who will be affected by the government's 'bedroom tax' are not prepared to move to smaller properties, research has found
Case law argues London's priced out tenants are 'homeless'
21 August, 2012
Legal precedent demands that tenants unable to meet unaffordable housing costs are legally homeless - What does this mean in today's London?
Tenants in under-occupied homes will have to move
21 August, 2012
Tenants who live in homes with more bedrooms than people will be moved - or face losing their housing benefits
Your Homes Newcastle Take A Dramatic Approach To Tenant Arrears
20 August, 2012
Your Homes Newcastle has taken an innovative approach to arrears recovery as part of their ongoing staff development
Tenants on direct payment pilots pay rent on time
17 August, 2012
The majority of tenants of two landlords taking part in direct payment pilot projects have made their first rent payments on time
Publicising discretionary hardship fund criticised
17 August, 2012
A call on councils to more aggressively promote a hardship fund by the Department for Work and Pensions has been criticised
Feeling the strain - DHPs
17 August, 2012
An in-depth look at the system of Discretionary Housing Payments by Keith Cooper, Inside Housing
The impact of Welfare Reform on housing associations and co-operatives in Scotland
17 August, 2012
Scottish Federation of Housing Associations Report
Publicising discretionary hardship fund criticised
17 August, 2012
A call on councils to more aggressively promote a hardship fund by the Department for Work and Pensions has been criticised
Government told to step-in if welfare cuts increase homelessness
16 August, 2012
A national charity wants a commitment from the Government to 'respond quickly' should welfare reform lead to a rise in homelessness
DWP opportunities for local partnership working
16 August, 2012
DWP aspire to join up public services such as health, housing, transport, employment and skills to help local people back into work
Women's Aid concerns over Universal Credit and Housing Benefit changes
15 August, 2012
Charity Women's Aid has voiced concerns over the implementation of Universal Credit and changes to Housing Benefit
Landlord urges tenants to use 'jam jar' accounts
15 August, 2012
A west midlands landlord is encouraging tenants to set up 'jam jar' accounts with a local credit union to help them manage their finances once welfare reforms come into force
Universal credit penalties 'will increase debt'
15 August, 2012
Penalties for benefit recipients who run up debts - including rent arrears - are too high and will lead to hardship and a cycle of debt, a homelessness group has warned
Creating a reward society through the social housing sector
15 August, 2012
To get the society you want, you must reward the type of behaviour you want to see. Banks already know this, but what about housing providers?
Housing benefit caps see tenants move out of London borough
14 August, 2012
Over 30% of HB clmts in Camden who were claiming LHA when the caps were introduced last year have either moved out of the borough or have met the rent out of other income
LIN Member Report August 2012 - Welfare Reform Case Study - Vela Group
13 August, 2012
This LIN member report is written by Claire Turner, Lynn McPartlin and Anthony Scarre.
Welfare reform will leave social tenants perpetually poor
13 August, 2012
Households already struggling before the financial crisis are now find their incomes eroded, creating greater dependency
Why are older people exempted from the impact of welfare reform?
13 August, 2012
Elderly people commonly underoccupy property, overconsume assets, and put pressure on rent and house prices
Editor's blog: five unanswered questions about welfare reform
13 August, 2012
With the weight of expectation lying on their shoulders, housing providers wait for clarity and confidence from government
Should social landlords pass on the bedroom tax to tenants?
10 August, 2012
The tax on underoccupation could cost social landlords more than it saves. Reducing rent could be the answer
Councils stockpile benefits war chest
10 August, 2012
Councils are stockpiling money from a hardship fund that helps tenants hit by welfare reforms because they are expecting a huge jump in need next year
Bedroom tax offer for training tenants
10 August, 2012
Liverpool Mutual Homes is planning to pay the bedroom tax for tenants who complete training programmes or voluntary activities on its estates
Localising the social fund: moving too fast?
09 August, 2012
Councils are left with little time to prepare for the responsibility of awarding crisis loans and community care grants
DWP: 'no plans' to increase bedroom tax reductions
09 August, 2012
The DWP says it currently has "no plans" to amend the percentage reduction rates for the 'bedroom tax' that will hit social housing tenants next April
Social Security Advisory Committee's call for evidence on the Universal Credit regulations
09 August, 2012
Council of Mortgage Lenders response (part 1) to the SSAC: Universal Credit and related regulations
Social Security Advisory Committee's call for evidence on the Universal Credit regulations
09 August, 2012
Council of Mortgage Lenders response (part 2) to the SSAC: Universal Credit and related regulations
LIN Press release - Evaluation of the Direct Payment Demonstration Projects
09 August, 2012
Evaluation of the Direct Payment Demonstration Projects- Emerging Learning
Housing benefit: 'Homes will have to be handed to the private sector'
09 August, 2012
Notting Hill Housing faces an end to 700 tenancies when the housing benefit cap hits London households next year
Calls for Edinburgh report on welfare reform
08 August, 2012
The impact of the government's welfare reform is likely to be scrutinised by Edinburgh Council
Universal credit doesn't help tenants off benefits and into work
08 August, 2012
New regulations remove the incentives that support unemployed residents back into work
What is 'vulnerable'?
08 August, 2012
If you thought the new Universal Credit regulations were done, dusted and ready for implementation, you'd be wrong.
Working lives: preparing for direct payment of housing benefit
08 August, 2012
Vulnerable tenants will see housing benefit paid directly to their landlord despite Universal Credit. But who is considered vulnerable?
Fears over 38-day wait for Universal Credit
07 August, 2012
The Government should allow all Universal Credit claimants to opt for fortnightly payments for a temporary period
Drop in families claiming housing benefit over £30,000
07 August, 2012
Nearly 1,400 families received in excess of £30,000 in housing benefit as of March 2012, official figures show
Lord Freud: 'We must allow people to run their lives independently'
07 August, 2012
The architect of welfare reform on how the DWP will tackle low pay and how the housing sector can help tenants off benefits
Wales to launch 'NHS-style' welfare service
06 August, 2012
Welsh housing minister pledges to create an 'NHS-type' welfare advice service to cope with a predicted spike in the number of people hit by welfare reforms
Universal Credit for local authorities
03 August, 2012
The DWP has announced that Bolton and Glasgow Benefit Centres will provide the telephony and processing services for the Universal Credit Pathfinder
Council to sell empty homes for £1 to tenants hit by housing benefit cuts
02 August, 2012
Stoke-on-Trent Council wants to offer loans of £30k to families hit by housing benefit cuts to refurbish empty homes which it will sell to them for a £1
Universal Credit: Confusion over who informs DWP of rent changes
02 August, 2012
Housing Associations are seeking clarity over who will inform the DWP about annual rent increases under Universal Credit
DHPs - Public Consultation
02 August, 2012
Consultation seeking views on the Discretionary Housing Payments guidance manual. Consultation closing date 31.8.12
HB/CTB A6/2012
02 August, 2012
HB/CTB circular - Court of Appeal judgment: Burnip, Trengove and Gorry
Getting tenants online: housing officers as digital champions
02 August, 2012
There is a serious lack of personal digital skills in the UK and we need a new kind of housing officer who can train tenants
LIN Press release - DWP model documents
01 August, 2012
Support for Housing Benefit claimants to meet any rent shortfall - model documents
Social Security Advisory Committee's call for evidence on the Universal Credit regulations
01 August, 2012
Crisis response to the SSAC consultation on Universal Credit
Broadband service to help Scunthorpe tenants get online
01 August, 2012
A superfast broadband scheme is due to be rolled out to social housing tenants in North Lincolnshire to encourage them to access the internet
Housing associations offer £50 cashback for tenants to switch to direct debit
01 August, 2012
Adactus Group tenants are being offered £50 cashback if they switch to paying their rent by direct debit
Social Security Advisory Committee's call for evidence on the Universal Credit regulations
01 August, 2012
St Mungo's response to the SSAC: Universal Credit and related regulations
Social Security Advisory Committee's call for evidence on the Universal Credit regulations
31 July, 2012
NHF response to the SSAC: Universal Credit and related regulations
Lib Dems plot revolt over Tory plans for more welfare cuts
31 July, 2012
Grassroots wants to fight next election with pledge to wipe out deficit by raising taxes on wealthy
Social Security Advisory Committee's call for evidence on the Universal Credit regulations
31 July, 2012
CIH response response to the SSAC: Universal Credit and related regulations
Benefit reforms will cause 'family breakdown'
27 July, 2012
New rules will leave young benefit claimants struggling to contribute towards their households' rent, leading to family breakdown, housing bodies have warned
Are social landlords prepared for universal credit?
26 July, 2012
Social housing can learn from the private rented sector to prepare for the government's new welfare scheme
Plan to cut 'bedroom tax' death exemption period under Universal Credit
26 July, 2012
Gov plans to cut the time allowed after a death before a tenant becomes eligible for 'bedroom tax' penalties is "harsh and unnecessary", according to NHF
Fears over benefit entitlement for supported housing under Universal Credit
26 July, 2012
A charity is awaiting a Gov response on the future of HB for supported housing amid fears that would see the system moving from "one of entitlement to one of discretion"
Housing association offers tenants up to £10,000 for spare rooms
26 July, 2012
Viridian housing association is offering tenants up to £10,000 to downsize ahead of new rules which come in next April penalising social tenants with spare bedrooms
Benefit reforms will cause 'family breakdown'
26 July, 2012
New rules will leave young benefit claimants struggling to contribute towards their households' rent, leading to family breakdown, housing bodies have warned
Universal Credit Regulations: SSAC call for evidence
24 July, 2012
Read this new briefing before sending your response to the Social Security Advisory Committee
LIN press release - HB Direct and Service charges
24 July, 2012
Information on Housing Benefit Direct and Service Charges under Universal Credit
Freud names local authority pilot long-list for Universal Credit
23 July, 2012
The DWP have named fifteen local authorities in England recommended as potential pilot sites for Universal Credit
Freud: Bedroom tax will ease overcrowding
23 July, 2012
The coalition government's bedroom tax will ease overcrowding and help tackle the shortage of social housing, Lord David Freud has said
Tenant discovers 'bedroom tax' loophole
19 July, 2012
We learn this week that a tenant who had pored through the regs had discovered a loophole in the 'bedroom tax' regs and had duly informed their L/L
Welfare reform: direct payment landlord hires 20 staff to support tenants
18 July, 2012
WDH (part of the direct payment demonstration project) has recruited 20 previously unemployed people to offer support to tenants hit by welfare reform
Online push for Universal Credit claims
18 July, 2012
Claimants of a new universal benefit will be pushed to complete forms online when the new system starts next year
Benefit cap
17 July, 2012
Ad hoc statistics on early feedback from claimants who are at risk of having their benefit capped in April 2013
Campaigners call for urgent rethink on self-employed rules under universal credit
17 July, 2012
These views were set out in a letter to the Welfare Reform Minister, Lord Freud, from the Low Incomes Tax Reform Group (LITRG
Government claims benefit cap is already pushing people into work
17 July, 2012
1,700 claimants who may have been affected by next April's household benefit cap have moved into work with a further 5,000 requesting back-to-work support
Universal Credit benefit reforms 'threatened by IT system'
16 July, 2012
Flagship reforms of the welfare system are under threat because the IT scheme behind the project is £100m over budget and plagued by glitches
Work and the welfare system: a survey of benefits and tax credits recipients
16 July, 2012
DWP research report
When worlds collide: regeneration and the bedroom tax crisis
13 July, 2012
The government's policies on housing will hit the north hard, and with few local Conservative representatives who will fight back?
Landlord offers 'budgeting accounts' ahead of Universal Credit
13 July, 2012
Walsall Housing Group, is signing tenants up to new budgeting accounts - offered through its local credit union - ahead of Universal Credit next year
DWP to close bedroom tax loophole
12 July, 2012
The Department for Work and Pensions has pledged to close a loophole which would have inadvertently exempted long-term housing association tenants from the bedroom tax
Tenants tell landlord they can take 'bedroom tax' hit
12 July, 2012
A housing association in the North West says some of the 2,300 tenants it has started to contact about housing benefit cuts believe they can afford to stay in their homes
Yarlington Housing Group asks tenants to downsize
12 July, 2012
A housing association in Somerset has begun asking its tenants to consider downsizing to free up larger family-sized houses
Bereavement Benefit for the 21st Century
11 July, 2012
New proposals for better supporting people on benefits after the loss of a spouse or civil partner have been set out by Lord Freud
Jargon warning after 40 different households ignore same benefit cut letter
10 July, 2012
Lambeth councillor warns social landlords to carefully consider communications to tenants around welfare reform after 40 households ignore benefit cut letter
Extra 20,000 'under-occupiers' to lose housing benefit entitlement
09 July, 2012
The Government has doubled the number of partial HB claimants it believes will lose all of their entitlement as a result of the new under-occupation rules
Universal credit to support payments to landlords
09 July, 2012
The government will have the ability to make payments of the housing element of universal credit direct to landlords from the start of the scheme
Universal Credit - frequently asked questions
09 July, 2012
Frequently asked questions on the Universal Credit benefits system.
Under 25s to be offered two-year council tenancies in London borough
09 July, 2012
Most young people under 25 will be offered 2 year fixed-term tenancies in Barnet, while the majority of new tenants will be offered 5 year terms
Deal struck to allow tenants without bank accounts to receive Universal Credit
06 July, 2012
The Government has struck a deal to allow tenants without bank accounts to receive the new Universal Credit directly from next year
Data-sharing and welfare reform
05 July, 2012
New powers from 2 July allow local authorities to share information with social landlords on who may be affected by the bedroom tax and benefit cap
Housing benefit cut 'will see rise in homelessness'
05 July, 2012
Poll shows majority concerned about fallout from Cameron's plan to end aid for under-25s
Petition calls for rethink on direct payment
05 July, 2012
Private landlords have set up a petition urging the government to rethink its approach to making housing benefit payments direct to tenants
Housing Association and Welfare Rights Best Practice Guide
01 July, 2012
Scottish Federation Of Housing Association publication
Are social landlords prepared for universal credit?
29 June, 2012
Housing benefit will be paid directly to tenants from October 2013 - are social landlords prepared for the changeover - Guardian online poll
Fewer service charges to be covered by benefits
29 June, 2012
Proposed new rules could lead to fewer service charges being covered by housing benefit, sector experts have warned
New banking concept to protect rents
29 June, 2012
Gentoo is in talks with credit unions about setting up 'jam jar accounts' to protect its income stream
Benefit 'shock' in draft Universal Credit regs
29 June, 2012
Benefit claimants absent from home due to long-term hospital care will only be eligible for 6 months HB not 12 months, under the draft UC regulations
MPs 'surprised' at Cameron's attack on his Government's benefit reform
29 June, 2012
MPs have expressed "surprise" at the Prime Minster's attack on non-dependant deductions which have been reformed by his Government
Make jobs, not cuts, to reduce reliance on the state
28 June, 2012
Most people want to work, so cutting welfare won't help: only a co-ordinated effort in Whitehall will truly reduce dependency
MSPs pass Scottish welfare changes
28 June, 2012
Proposed new laws to "limit the impact" of UK-wide welfare reforms in Scotland have been passed by MSPs
Cameron takes aim at non-dependant deductions
26 June, 2012
Prime Minister David Cameron has taken aim at non-dependant deductions (NDD) when referring to families who want their adult children to stay living at home
Are social landlords prepared for universal credit?
26 June, 2012
Social housing can learn from the private rented sector to prepare for the government's new welfare scheme
David Cameron's 17 ideas to cut extra £10bn from welfare
26 June, 2012
David Cameron's proposals come on top of restrictions to benefits in the Welfare Act, to be introduced from 2013
Welfare Wales: 'Confusion' on regional benefits
26 June, 2012
Welsh ministers have accused the UK coalition government of "a great deal of confusion" over the idea of regional benefits
Cameron to axe housing benefits for feckless under 25s
25 June, 2012
Prime Minister reveals housing benefit will be scrapped for under 25s and dole money will be stopped for those who refuse to find work
Cameron targeting social housing entry age with benefit bill assault
25 June, 2012
Iain Duncan Smith says the prime minister's discussion on welfare support is partly focusing on the average age at which people enter into social housing, currently 21
The Social Security (Information-sharing in relation to Welfare Services etc.) Regulations 2012
25 June, 2012
Data sharing regulations for social sector landlords which covers information referring to housing benefit, under-occupation, the benefits cap etc
Is scrapping housing benefit for under-25s a good idea?
25 June, 2012
The prime minister David Cameron says the policy would save £2bn a year, and send out a clear message on welfare
Welfare speech
25 June, 2012
Speech by Prime Minister David Cameron on welfare, at Bluewater, Kent on Monday 25th June, 2012
Prime Minister David Cameron considers benefit cuts
24 June, 2012
BBC One's Sunday Politics video clip
Government to end extended payments
22 June, 2012
The new benefits system will disincentivise people to work by abolishing temporary payments which cover claimants' housing costs when they find a job
UK's largest stock-holding council in 'bedroom tax' avoidance bid
22 June, 2012
The UK's largest stock holding council says a new consortium will help tenants avoid benefit cuts and protect landlords' rental income
Scottish landlords issue warning over welfare cuts
21 June, 2012
The changes to welfare payments will put at risk efforts to improve social housing and build new affordable homes, according to housing reps in Scotland
Mind the digital housing gap
21 June, 2012
There is a huge amount of housing advice online that can guide through complex issues. But those most in need are the least able to take advantage
Universal Credit and related regulations - a call for evidence
20 June, 2012
The closing date for responses is 27 July 2012
The Perfect Storm: Economic stagnation, the rising cost of living, public spending cuts, and the impact on UK poverty
20 June, 2012
Oxfam Report
50,000 North East families to be hit by 'bedroom tax'
18 June, 2012
Up to 50,000 North East families could be affected by the so-called 'bedroom tax', figures from the National Housing Federation highlight
Universal Credit regulations
18 June, 2012
Welfare reform draft regulations and policy briefing notes
DWP submits draft universal credit and benefit cap regulations to Social Security Advisory Committee
15 June, 2012
It was announced in parliament yesterday that draft universal credit regulations would be published shortly
Walsall's biggest social landlord eyes bigger credit union take-up
14 June, 2012
Walsall-based social landlord whg says it's working with its local credit union to support tenants hit by the Government's welfare reforms
LIN Member Report June 2012 - More money to spare: How local authorities are still failing to award discretionary housing payments
14 June, 2012
LIN June member report by Neil Merrick which looks at the DHP fund, which is one measure, that could help offset the impact of the Welfare Reforms
Direct payments: Council no longer fearing dramatic increase in arrears
14 June, 2012
One of the councils involved in the Government's HB demonstration projects says it no longer fears a dramatic increase in arrears
Mandatory consideration of revision before appeal
13 June, 2012
Government interim response to public consultation
Housing 2012: the sector must meet the challenge of welfare reform
13 June, 2012
Housing is key to the transformation of the welfare system and breaking dependency, says the minister for welfare reform
Direct housing benefit switch to 'shake' confidence of investors
12 June, 2012
CEX of Bromford Group warns Government that plans to pay HB direct to tenants will "shake" the confidence of institutional investors
Premium phone line fined for targeting vulnerable
12 June, 2012
A premium rate phone line claiming to help people on benefits find accommodation in the private rented sector has been fined £100,000
Universal credit in Scotland: why we're taking part in a direct payment pilot
12 June, 2012
Dunedin Canmore is the only Scottish housing association to trial direct payment of housing benefit early - here's why
Universal Credit will support young people in work
11 June, 2012
Young people will receive greater incentives to get into work under Universal Credit, Minister for Welfare Reform Lord Freud has said
Lord Freud exclusive: 'Poorest should be prepared to take greatest risks'
11 June, 2012
24housing Editor Jon Land meets Welfare Reform Minister Lord Freud to talk about Universal Credit demonstration projects & under-occupation rules
Universal credit won't affect ratings
08 June, 2012
Leading credit rating agencies has moved to downplay fears that welfare reform measures could negatively affect investors' confidence
Top tips: Preparing for Universal Credit
06 June, 2012
Advice on how social housing can prepare for the government's new welfare system
Why strands of universal credit don't knit together
06 June, 2012
As far as welfare reform policy goes, universal credit is sheer lunacy, and any creaks in the system could lead to anyone feeling the axe
Face to face and telephone support under universal credit will be geared towards helping claimants use online channel, says Lord Freud
01 June, 2012
Speech by Lord Freud, Minister for Welfare Reform, at the National Digital Conference
Landlords do not plan to reclassify their homes
01 June, 2012
The majority of England's largest social landlords have ruled out reclassifying properties to enable tenants to avoid the 'bedroom tax'
Reforms to Council Tax benefit 'could undermine Universal Credit'
01 June, 2012
Government plans to localise council tax benefit while cutting funding for it by 10% threatens to undermine the new Universal Credit system
Computer says no
31 May, 2012
Sixteen months from now, the first claimants will start receiving Universal Credit. How will the IT systems cope?
Benefits spending blows out by £9bn
31 May, 2012
Benefit spending will be £9bn higher than planned because of Coalition's failure to get people off welfare, research suggests
Benefit cap factsheet
31 May, 2012
From April 2013 the Benefit cap will be implemented for new and existing claimants via a deduction from Housing Benefit
'Sad indictment we can review taxes on pasties but not on bedrooms
30 May, 2012
A CEX has expressed disappointment that while amending its VAT plans for pasty products, the Gov is still pushing through its 'bedroom tax'
Amount of young adults living with parents rises 20%
30 May, 2012
Nearly 3 million young adults were living with their parents in 2011, an increase of nearly 500,000 from 1997 according to the Office of National Statistics
Work-for-free programme to be expanded by government
28 May, 2012
DWP plans to extend its scheme which forces the long-term unemployed to take unpaid work or lose benefits
Credit where credit's due - The provision of credit union services through post offices
25 May, 2012
Consumer Focus Report
Early roll out of Universal Credit to go live in Manchester and Cheshire
25 May, 2012
Universal Credit will go live in the Greater Manchester and Cheshire region in April 2013 – six months before the national roll-out
Fraud Guide
25 May, 2012
The Fraud Guide is used by DWP staff who investigate allegations of benefit fraud
Freud insists welfare reforms are cutting rents
25 May, 2012
Lord David Freud has insisted that rents are coming down as a result of the coalition's welfare reforms
Ruling could force 'bedroom tax' change
24 May, 2012
Charity warns - The Gov will have to amend the under-occupation housing benefit rules pending its decision to appeal against a recent court judgement
Direct payment could double rent arrears
24 May, 2012
Housing associations are anticipating rent arrears could double as a result of moves to pay housing welfare payments direct to tenants
New Universal Credit benefit to be tested in North West
24 May, 2012
The new single benefit, which the government claims will simplify the welfare system, is to be introduced six months earlier than planned
Housing Association bids to help residents caught in a new benefit trap
24 May, 2012
SHA is taking action to ensure its tenants are forewarned about new HB rules which could leave them up to £14 a week worse off
Going Back To Basics With Bank Accounts
24 May, 2012
South Tyneside Homes is looking to help council tenants manage their money by linking up with two high-street financial service providers
Violent offenders forced into shared accommodation by welfare changes
23 May, 2012
Attempts to protect tenants from harm are flawed, leaving dangerous and vulnerable people slipping through the net
Freud under fire for bedroom tax 'ruse'
23 May, 2012
Housing professionals have demanded the welfare minister 'own up' to the motivation for the government's controversial bedroom tax
Near 30,000 increase in housing benefit recipients pushes claims over 5 million
21 May, 2012
The number of people claiming housing benefit has topped 5 million, according to Government statistics
Danger system will 'explode around the edges', warns housing boss
18 May, 2012
A CEX has warned there are "real dangers" in the way the Government is cutting welfare payments
Court ruling could force rethink on bedroom tax
18 May, 2012
The government could be forced to make changes to its controversial bedroom tax policy following a Court of Appeal ruling this week
LIN Member Report May 2012 - Welfare Reform - Key Changes to Benefits in 2012/13
17 May, 2012
This LIN member report is written by Peter Hall
£25bn further welfare cuts? 'Froth'
17 May, 2012
Lord David Freud has dismissed reports that the prime minister is considering £25 billion of further welfare cuts as 'froth'
DWP chooses partners for Universal Credit pathfinder
17 May, 2012
The DWP has chosen partners for its Universal Credit pathfinder which will road test the system "end-to-end" six months before it comes in for real
Lord Freud urges 'rational approach' to bedroom definitions
17 May, 2012
The architect of the Government's welfare reforms has urged social landlords to take a 'rational approach' to bedroom definitions ahead of HB changes
The housing benefit drain from central London begins
17 May, 2012
A woman born and raised in Ladbroke Grove in west London has been moved out to Dagenham following the government's cut to housing benefit
Complex benefit system leading to fraud and error
17 May, 2012
New fraud and error figures show why fundamental reform of the benefits system is so vital, Ministers have said
Smartphones and tablets save £1m a year for frontline housing staff
16 May, 2012
ALMO Your Homes Newcastle has invested in new software that will help overhaul its tenant concierge service
MSPs support Scottish welfare changes
16 May, 2012
Proposed new laws to "limit the impact" of UK-wide welfare reforms in Scotland should be passed, MSPs have said
Report questions legality of household benefit cap
15 May, 2012
The government may have broken equality laws when introducing the total household benefits cap, according to watchdog the Equality and Human Rights Commission
Welfare changes could harm work programme
15 May, 2012
The Department for Work and Pensions has failed to consider the impact welfare reform will have on its flagship employment programme, according to a group of MPs
Getting to grips with the nation's welfare
15 May, 2012
Iain Duncan Smith's welfare reforms are welcome but we need to go further
Council severs link between homelessness applications and social tenancies
14 May, 2012
Hammersmith and Fulham Council is to sever the link between a homelessness application and a social housing tenancy as it overhauls allocations policy
Support for people on sickness benefits to get back into the workplace
14 May, 2012
Thousands of people who have been on sickness benefits for more than 15 years have been found fit to work and will now get support to help them back into a job, new analysis reveals
Balancing rights and responsibilities - rebuilding the social security system in the 21st century
11 May, 2012
Malcolm Wicks argues many voters have lost faith in the welfare system and that to revive it the contributory principle needs to be restored
Flat rentals hit record highs as tenants forced to pay small homes premium
10 May, 2012
The cost of renting a flat in the UK has a reached record high, with tenants being forced to pay a premium for smaller properties, according to property website FindaProperty.com
Housing providers' approaches to tackling worklessness
10 May, 2012
HACT and Inclusion report outlining how housing providers can increase the impact of employment and skills programmes aimed at getting residents into work
The woman who lives in a shed: how London landlords are cashing in
10 May, 2012
Council finds people living in everything from massively overcrowded houses to a walk-in freezer - and the problem is getting worse
Housing association leads way on direct benefit payments in Scotland
09 May, 2012
Dunedin Canmore Housing Association are the first social landlord in Scotland to take part in the DWP demonstration projects
Bedroom tax: 'In the eye of the perfect storm'
09 May, 2012
with less than a year before it comes into effect, how are those housing associations and their tenants preparing for it in the North of England
Save money, downsize
08 May, 2012
Landlord re-launches its 'downsizing' scheme to help assist tenants who may face difficulty with the HB, Welfare Reform, underoccupancy cuts
Government gives one year's notice of benefit cap
08 May, 2012
Letters are being sent this week to households who may be affected by the benefit cap
More than 11,000 households claim benefits worth more than higher rate taxpayers' earnings
07 May, 2012
The figure was disclosed by Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith before letters are sent to households this week explaining a new cap on benefits
Housing providers' approaches to tackling worklessness
04 May, 2012
Centre for Economic and Social Inclusion report
Thousands get first warning they may lose their homes as Coalition's benefits cuts arrive
04 May, 2012
Over 90,000 people begin to hear how they will be affected by the new benefits cap
Thousands to learn if their homes are at risk
04 May, 2012
The National Housing Federation is urging councils to share information with housing associations as thousands of households find out their homes could be put at risk by benefit cuts
Landlords risk breaching loan agreements if they reclassify properties to protect their tenants from the 'bedroom tax'
04 May, 2012
Landlords risk breaching loan agreements if they reclassify properties to protect their tenants from the 'bedroom tax'
Income and Expenditure form
03 May, 2012
Complete an income and expenditure form to ensure that income exceeds expenditure and a tenant has enough excess income to pay any rent shortfall
NHF Finance policy quarterly update
02 May, 2012
Spring 2012 - The update provides a snapshot of a range of finance policy issues including information on Welfare Reform
Monitoring poverty and social exclusion in Northern Ireland 2012
02 May, 2012
Joseph Rowntree report
Charity chief hits out at 'inhumane' work test
02 May, 2012
The government's test to assess whether individuals are suitable for employment is an 'inhumane ordeal' for homeless people, according to head of Crisis
Changes to contribution-based Employment and Support Allowance
01 May, 2012
On 1 May 2012 the Welfare Reform Act 2012 introduced two changes to contribution-based Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
Fears welfare reforms will increase fast-track evictions
30 April, 2012
Landlords will fast-track possession claims using ‘draconian’ legal measures to defend their businesses against the impact of welfare reform
Duncan Smith opposes Osborne's £10bn welfare cut
30 April, 2012
The work and pensions secretary has suggested £10 billion of further welfare cuts threatened by the chancellor would be opposed by his department
Peer pressure
30 April, 2012
The government's welfare reforms faced a fierce opponent in Lord Richard Best as he battled to protect society’s poorest people
Welfare Reform assessing the impact on children
30 April, 2012
Welfare Reform Bill reports by Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People (NICCY)
New Housing Benefit Regulations (Under-occupation)
30 April, 2012
Read how the draft regulations which govern how the size criteria, also known as the bedroom tax, will be applied. Explanatory cover note by DWP
'We're not a dumping ground for London's poor', says Derby councillor
27 April, 2012
A Derby councillor has hit out at proposals that could see London boroughs relocating homeless housing benefit claimants in the East Midlands
Dromey asks London councils to reveal numbers of displaced LHA claimants
27 April, 2012
Labour's Shadow Housing Minister and Shadow Minister for London have written to London councils asking how many homeless people are being housed outside the capital
Bedroom tax deal struck
27 April, 2012
RSL strikes deal with LA to continue providing 1 & 2 bed homes for homeless people, despite smaller properties being prioritised for tenants hit by bedroom tax
Minister's Benefit remarks refuted
27 April, 2012
Housing experts have criticised Grant Shapps over comments he made about housing benefit claimants in the wake of the news Newham Council plans to move hundreds of tenants outside the borough
Lord Freud calls on councils to pilot Universal Credit support
27 April, 2012
DWP and LGA joint prospectus calling on LA's to deliver pilots to support residents in preparation for the introduction of Universal Credit in 2013
Calls for Government to reform LHA following Newham re-housing row
26 April, 2012
Newham Council's plans to re-house 500 families 100 miles away claiming that they can't afford to stay in the borough with HB caps has provoked a media backlash
Newham's housing crisis is an issue of basic morality
26 April, 2012
Peaks & Plains Housing Trust discarded its letter in disgust at the 'lazy' approach to tackling policy change
Newham's housing crisis is a warning sign
25 April, 2012
The London borough's plea for Stoke on Trent to take tenants is indicative of a risky cocktail of pressures in the housing market
Waltham Forest admits moving residents to Luton, Margate and Walsall
25 April, 2012
Waltham Forest is the latest London borough to come under scruinty over its decision to house residents in other parts of the country due to a shortage of suitable homes
Westminster weighs up offer to house homeless in the East Midlands
25 April, 2012
A London borough is considering an offer from a hotel group to re-house dozens of homeless housing benefit claimants to Derby and Nottingham
Send Newham families to Stoke? It reflects a broken housing policy
25 April, 2012
Affordable homes are being demolished, while the budget for new builds is halved and the building industry stagnates
'Social cleansing' housing benefit cap row: Grant Shapps hits back
24 April, 2012
The government has defended its housing benefit cap after it emerged London's Newham council was trying to find homes for some families 160 miles away
The Newham Council letter to Stoke-based Brighter Futures Housing Association - in full
24 April, 2012
Here is the text of the letter from Newham Council to Stoke-on-Trent-based Brighter Futures Housing Association requesting that it leases accommodation to more than 500 families
Q&A;: Rehousing families on benefits
24 April, 2012
Newham council has been accused of "social cleansing" in London. What is meant by social cleansing, and what will it mean for the city?
Fed warns Newham problems are 'tip of iceberg'
24 April, 2012
Moves by a London council to house families hundreds of miles away from the capital are just the 'tip of the iceberg' the National Housing Federation has warned
Families priced out by benefits cap
24 April, 2012
Shelter is urging the Government to consider the damage inflicted on families by cuts to housing benefit
Poorest will be hardest hit by 'botched' Universal Credit roll-out
23 April, 2012
The Government's "botched" roll out of Universal Credit threatens to penalise the poorest in society Unison warn
Bedroom tax: 'Why it's the homeless and the elderly that should be worrying'
20 April, 2012
The far-reaching impact of a policy trimming around the edges of benefit expenditure continues to claim new potential victims
Councils not asking landlords to lower rents
20 April, 2012
Three-quarters of private landlords have not been approached by councils about reducing rents in return for direct payment of local housing allowance
Tackling the bedroom tax: finding new homes for cash-strapped tenants
19 April, 2012
Liverpool Mutual Homes has launched a Mersey-wide lettings scheme to help tenants avoid the penalty for under occupation
Housing chief predicts 'acceleration' of Universal Credit claims
19 April, 2012
CEX believes the Government may look to 'accelerate' the transition of benefit claimants on to Universal Credit to achieve projected welfare savings
DWP to 'leave out definition of bedroom' in under-occupation rules
18 April, 2012
The DWP is set to leave out the definition of a bedroom in its published regulations for the under-occupation penalties for social housing tenants
Car dealer hit with fine over benefit fraud
18 April, 2012
A man who bought and sold cars worth up to £540,000 has been found guilty of benefit fraud after failing to declare money earned while trading
Household incomes' biggest drop in 15 years as family finance squeeze goes on
17 April, 2012
Household incomes saw their biggest drop in 15 years in 2011 as the squeeze on family finances increased
Government to invoke controversial rule in bid to squash LASPO changes
17 April, 2012
The Ministry of Justice has confirmed that it will invite the House of Commons to invoke 'financial privilege' to overrule eight of the amendments
Right to Buy hits Westminster rents
17 April, 2012
Westminster Council has negotiated with owners of former council flats to lower rents for households affected by the housing benefit cap
LIN press release - Under occupation and under-35's
16 April, 2012
LIN press release and information leaflet
LIN Member Report April 2012 - Validation of housing benefit by landlords in the private and social rented sectors
15 April, 2012
This LIN member report is written by Neil Merrick
Warning over housing benefit plan for under-25s
13 April, 2012
Attempts to simplify benefits through universal credit will fail if the government accepts a controversial proposal to stop out-of-work under-25s receiving housing benefit
Cutting housing benefit for under-25s ultimately saves nothing
13 April, 2012
Young housing benefit claimants are infantilised by policymakers, who are ignoring structural economic problems
Real Time Information PAYE pilot goes live at HMRC
12 April, 2012
HMRC has launched a pilot of Real Time Information (RTI) for PAYE.
Ending housing benefit for under-25s? A policy with more holes than a sieve
11 April, 2012
This out-of-touch plan, slipped out just before the bank holiday getaway, contains so many flaws that it surely can't be serious
'Bedroom tax is a complete change of direction for housing'
10 April, 2012
Discussion on the impact of the 'bedroom tax'
Concern over plan to withdraw housing benefit from under-25s
10 April, 2012
Government proposal would hit thousands of vulnerable young people, charities and campaign groups warn
Abundance of land, shortage of housing
10 April, 2012
The government's 'timid' planning reform will not solve the housing crisis, according to a new report by the Institute of Economic Affairs
Homelessness: 'We're entering a very nasty period'
05 April, 2012
The country is entering a "very nasty period" as homelessness soars to levels "unseen for 25 years", Big Issue founder John Bird has warned
Family budgets hit by 'Bad Friday' bombshell
05 April, 2012
CPAG briefing on the cuts, which families will be affected and the consequences for child poverty
Important update briiefing on the Future of HB in supported and sheltered housing
04 April, 2012
Briefing paper
Get Set for Welfare Reform
02 April, 2012
LIN and PHHS can provide support for social sector landlords dealing with the Welfare Reforms
Cost of housing benefit grows as working households struggle to pay rent
02 April, 2012
Almost all new benefit claimants are in employment but hit by wage freezes and shorter hours, study finds
Bishop warns housing benefit cap will lead to 'torn and fractured communities'
30 March, 2012
The former Bishop of Southwark has warned that the Gov's housing benefit cap poses "a real threat to families living in central London communities"
The Growth of In-Work Housing Benefit Claimants: Evidence and policy implications
30 March, 2012
This research analyses the growth of HB claimant numbers in Great Britain in 2025/2011, including the rapid growth in the number of in-work HB claims
Welfare reform: the dangers to older people's housing
30 March, 2012
The Welfare Reform Act will hit older people and their housing providers hard and risks overlooking important changes to vulnerable tenants
Biggest upgrade to PAYE system to go live in April
30 March, 2012
The government is due to go live with the biggest upgrade to the PAYE IT system since the 1950s within the next two weeks.
When affordable rents are no longer affordable
29 March, 2012
The Government is introducing a £500pw cap on household benefits from 2013, but at the same time, is raising the rents for those on the lowest incomes
Universal Credit: The impact on Passported Benefits
28 March, 2012
DWP have published the government's response to SSAC's report into the impact of Universal Credit on passported benefits
Committee seeking views on welfare reform
27 March, 2012
A parliamentary committee in Scotland has called for suggestions for how Scotland should implement the Welfare Reform Act
Benefit IT system 'not fully operational' for launch
23 March, 2012
DWP admit the IT system handling direct payment of housing benefit to tenants will not be fully operational by the implementation date - October 2013
Landlords join up to avoid 'bedroom tax'
23 March, 2012
Landlords across Merseyside are launching a region-wide home swap scheme in a bid to protect their tenants and rental income from the impact of the government's 'bedroom tax'
Universal credit
23 March, 2012
In small halls across Northern Ireland, community leaders are starting to brief people about what they can expect from welfare reform
Universal Credit: Banks unlikely to deliver new financial products ahead of direct payments trial - DWP
22 March, 2012
DWP admit banks are unlikely to deliver new financial products to help social sector manage direct HB payments to tenants in time for demonstration projects
Social landlord considers 'affordability assessments' on prospective new tenants
22 March, 2012
Hyde Housing are considering carrying out 'affordability assessments' on prospective new tenants
Scope response to the Budget
22 March, 2012
Responding to the Chancellor's announcement of the possibility of a further £10 billion of cuts to welfare, Richard Hawkes, CEX of Scope, said:
Critics say cuts in housing benefits will hit most vulnerable
22 March, 2012
Case study - Stephen is a 28-year-old unemployed single man who is about to be hit by the so-called "bedroom tax"
Social landlord fears £1.3 million loss as 2,000 homes declared 'under-occupied'
21 March, 2012
2,000 properties owned by Liverpool Mutual Homes are officially under-occupied based on the Gov's definition of the term according to the landlord
Chancellor threatens further welfare cuts
21 March, 2012
George Osborne has today raised the prospect of further welfare spending cuts in the next spending review
Welfare reform fears prompt small rent increase
20 March, 2012
Knowsley Housing Trust is limiting its rent increase to tenants in preparation for the impact that welfare changes will have
Housing associations bolster rent arrears teams ahead of benefit changes
19 March, 2012
Housing associations are looking to bolster their rent arrears teams ahead of the Government changes to the benefits system, according to research by Badenoch & Clark
MP Adrian Sanders warns on regional benefits system
19 March, 2012
A localised welfare system would penalise deprived parts of the South West, a Devon MP has said
Welfare reform warning to Scottish councils
16 March, 2012
Audit Scotland has warned of 'significant implications' for councils over the introduction of the universal credit as part of the Welfare Reform Act
Landlord's arrears fears over monthly payment of Universal Credit
16 March, 2012
A HA has spent thousands of pounds on debt advice and targeted campaigns to help tenants pay their rent and sustain their tenancies ahead of UC
DWP to consult on social homes under-occupation
16 March, 2012
The government has said that it 'does not expect' changes to the shared accommodation rate to be applied to social housing tenants
Why the shared room rate doesn't add up
15 March, 2012
Forcing housing benefit claimants under 35 to share a house leaves vulnerable tenants such as single pregnant women at risk
Ending Child Poverty: Ensuring Universal Credit supports working mums
14 March, 2012
How will Universal Credit affect poor families? Report by Save the Children
MPs and peers to examine private rented sector
14 March, 2012
A Parliamentary group is to examine the impact welfare reforms will have on young people in the private rented sector
Westminster's new leader hits back at 'social cleansing' accusations
14 March, 2012
Westminster residents will be hit hard by the benefits cap, but the council's new leader, Philippa Roe, says they needn't go far
Benefit reforms 'will hit single working mothers' warns Save The Children
13 March, 2012
Single working mothers in Wales will be hardest hit by reforms to the benefits system, a charity has claimed
Sex offenders forced into shared houses
12 March, 2012
Paedophiles and rapists who used to receive payments enabling them to live on their own could be moved into shared homes with women and children, due to housing benefit reforms
Landlords braced for impact of benefit reform
12 March, 2012
Social landlords are preparing to commit significant amounts of extra cash and resources to ready themselves for the impact of the Welfare Reforms
Grayling backs housing association paid work pilots for young unemployed
12 March, 2012
Unemployed young people will be given the chance to get on the career ladder thanks to a group of social housing providers
Risk warning issued over universal credit
12 March, 2012
The government is taking unnecessary risks through its plans to move to a centralised system for administering benefits, a welfare expert has warned
Conservative MP calls on landlords to pilot 'jam jar' accounts for Universal Credit
09 March, 2012
A Conservative MP has called for RSL's to pilot an existing type of bank account to help tenants better manage their finances ahead of Universal Credit in 2013
Minister Announces £6.6 Million Funding for Citizens Advice Cymru
09 March, 2012
Local Government and Communities Minister Carl Sargeant has announced funding of over £6 million for the next three financial years for Citizens Advice Cymru
Direct payments: are rent arrears set to rocket?
08 March, 2012
Nearly a decade ago, L&Q; trialled paying housing benefit directly to social tenants with disastrous results. The group’s rent arrears nearly doubled
Landlords 'refusing to let to those on benefits', says council leader
08 March, 2012
Private landlords are starting to refuse to let to those on benefits, the leader of Brighton and Hove City Council told housing professionals
Welfare Bill turns law 'marking biggest reform for 60 years'
08 March, 2012
The Welfare Reform Bill became law today containing some of the biggest changes to the system for 60 years
Iain Duncan Smith: Welfare reforms realised
08 March, 2012
Iain Duncan Smith's Welfare Reform Bill has now become law marking an historic moment for the Coalition Government
LIN Member Report March 2012 - Welfare Reform - What Next?
08 March, 2012
This LIN member report is written by Peter Hall, Director, PHHS.
Welfare Reform Act 2012: key issues
08 March, 2012
Read briefings on the key issues contained in the Welfare Reform Act 2012
Third of Londoners expect to leave due to high housing costs
07 March, 2012
Almost a third (30%) of Londoners say they expect to be driven out of the capital by the high cost of housing, a new survey by housing and homelessness charity Shelter reveals
Youth homelessness: Falling through the net?
06 March, 2012
Life for Britain's younger generation doesn't seem to be getting easier, young people now face an additional problem - of ending up on the streets
NICVA fears welfare reform will hit poor hardest
06 March, 2012
The body which represents the voluntary sector has warned that the government's welfare reform bill will take £500m a year out of the NI economy
Lords abandon new bid for statutory welfare review
06 March, 2012
A renewed attempt to get an independent review of the impact of the government's welfare reforms enshrined in law has been abandoned
Breaking the Bank : Family Fortunes
05 March, 2012
Families are facing an unprecedented squeeze on their finances and spending as little as £2 a day on food, according to charity Family Action
National Housing Federation disappointed over 'bedroom tax' result
02 March, 2012
The chief executive of the National Housing Federation has said it is 'hugely disappointing' that the government has succeeded in forcing its plans for a 'bedroom tax' through parliament
DWP and HMRC Universal Credit communications
01 March, 2012
This note is about the process for selection of telephony and processing sites to deliver the first phases of Universal Credit
Benefit claims being 'cleansed' prior to Universal Credit
01 March, 2012
Benefit claims are in the process of being "case cleansed" ahead of the roll out of Universal Credit, the Government has said.
Welfare Reform Bill passes final House of Lords hurdle
01 March, 2012
The government's controversial Welfare Reform Bill has passed its final hurdle in the House of Lords
Cameron on Welfare Reform: 'An historic moment'
01 March, 2012
The Government's Welfare Reform Bill finally passed on Wednesday night after peers dropped their final resistance to the measures
Government promises independent review of 'bedroom tax'
01 March, 2012
The Government has promised to set up an independent review on the impact of the bedroom tax following the passing of the controversial Welfare Reform Bill
Welfare Reform Bill reaches conclusion
01 March, 2012
The Welfare Reform Bill came to the end of the consideration of amendments stage (ping pong) in the House of Lords on Wednesday 29 February 2012
Peer in bid to make welfare reform transparent
29 February, 2012
Crossbench peer Lord Richard Best has tabled a last-ditch amendment aimed at making the impact of controversial welfare reforms more transparent
Charities warn of welfare reform damage
29 February, 2012
One in four people in Wales will be affected by welfare reform, a coalition of poverty charities and voluntary organisations has warned
Analysing the impact of the UK Government's welfare reforms in Wales - Stage 1 Analysis
29 February, 2012
The Welsh Govs Ministerial Task and Finish Group for Welfare Reform has commissioned a programme of work to assess the impact of the UK Govs welfare reforms in Wales
Welfare Reform - Implications for Tenancy and Allocations Policies and Strategies
28 February, 2012
PHHS report which sets out the key welfare reform implications to consider building into social housing tenancy & allocations policies and strategies
Benefit reform 'could put 6,000 children into poverty'
28 February, 2012
The number of cases of child poverty in Wales will increase by 6,000 next year as a result of changes to the tax and benefits system
Benefits families could pay off £1m mortgage
27 February, 2012
Almost 100 families are raking in enough HB to fund a £1million mortgage, raising fresh doubts over the Government's cap, according to latest figures
London handed lion's share of £15m housing benefit support cash
27 February, 2012
London has received the lion's share of a funding package announced by the Government to help councils and benefit claimants hit by welfare cuts
Number of rough sleepers in England rises by a fifth
24 February, 2012
Charities warn homelessness will rise further as local authority and housing benefit cuts take effect
Shared home scheme for former homeless
24 February, 2012
A homelessness charity in London has set up a housing project to help people affected by housing benefit reforms
Cameron rejects call to correct private rents claim
23 February, 2012
David Cameron has refused to correct his claim that private sector rents are falling despite research carried out by Inside Housing that proves the opposite is true
Ken Loach: Government is 'cleansing' London
23 February, 2012
Ken Loach has accused the government of using benefit reform to 'cleanse' central London of poor people because it feels they disfigure the capital
Bedroom tax warning
23 February, 2012
The Scottish Gov has again warned the UK Gov that their Housing Benefit reforms will remove over £54 million a year from the Scottish economy
Universal Credit - weapon against benefit fraudsters
23 February, 2012
UC will reduce fraud and error in the benefits system, as new figures confirm the current system is too complex and still open to abuse and error
Massive drop in households claiming housing benefit over cap in Westminster
22 February, 2012
More than 1,000 households in Westminster are no longer living in homes requiring housing benefit higher than the new national caps, it has emerged
Government wins 'bedroom tax' vote
22 February, 2012
The government has comfortably won a vote on the controversial 'bedroom tax.'
Welfare Bill: MPs overturn Lords defeat on spare rooms
22 February, 2012
MPs have voted to overturn Lords' call for changes to the controversial plans for a so-called "bedroom tax", which is part of the Welfare Reform Bill
Bedroom tax vote will hit thousands, warns Federation
22 February, 2012
Thousands of families in social housing face being driven into poverty after the Gov rejected moves to protect vulnerable people from the bedroom tax
'Blow to thousands' as Government forges ahead with 'bedroom tax'
22 February, 2012
Thousands face being "driven into poverty" as a result of the Government forging ahead with plans to cut the HB of social tenants with spare rooms
Disabled people face unlimited unpaid work or cuts in benefit
21 February, 2012
Mental health groups and charities attack plans drawn up by Department for Work and Pensions
Benefit cuts will require extra support for migrants
21 February, 2012
Changes to HB mean government ministers, social housing providers and private landlords need to give more help to migrants, a new report has found
New disability tests 'must prove fair and accurate'
20 February, 2012
The gov must ensure new welfare assessments planned for disabled people are "accurate and fair" before they are rolled out nationally MPs have said
Government's bedroom tax 'could create future housing crisis'
17 February, 2012
The Government's proposed 'bedroom tax' could create a future housing crisis, according to a housing chief executive
Housing benefit cap forces families to leave central London or be homeless
17 February, 2012
As schools struggle to cope with the disruption caused to children, a council officer declares: 'To live in Westminster is a privilege, not a right'
Government to overturn latest 'bedroom tax' exemption
16 February, 2012
The Gov is seeking to overturn a House of Lords amendment to the 'spare bedroom tax' which will cut the HB of social housing tenants with spare rooms
Government urged to rethink bedroom tax given second Lords defeat
16 February, 2012
The CIH is urging government to agree concessions on its proposed 'bedroom tax' before the Welfare Reform Bill is returned to the House of Commons
Ministers lose Lords welfare vote
15 February, 2012
Gov plans to cut the housing benefit of social tenants living in homes with spare rooms has been dealt another major defeat in the House of Lords
Fresh plan to overturn new welfare amendments
15 February, 2012
The government will seek to overturn the latest amendment to the welfare reform bill agreed by the House of Lords
Peers in new bid to exempt vulnerable from 'bedroom tax'
14 February, 2012
Gov's Welfare Reform Bill faces fresh opposition in House of Lords after crossbencher peer tables new amendments to limit the impact of the "bedroom" tax
Poll backs one spare room limit for tenants
13 February, 2012
More than two thirds of Inside Housing readers think social tenants on housing benefit should be allowed to have one spare room
LIN member report - Money to spare: How local authorities are failing to award discretionary housing payments
10 February, 2012
This LIN member report is written by Neil merrick
Tenants see 'loss of £100,000' in first wave of housing benefit cuts
10 February, 2012
HB changes to non-dep deductions have cost tenants of a West Midlands housing association £100,000 - with a further £100,000 cut expected next year
Welfare reform calendar 2011 - 2013
10 February, 2012
The Welfare Reform Bill is about to receive royal assent and will radically alter the benefits system
Welfare Reform is 'greatest challenge to housing sector'
09 February, 2012
The Welfare Reform presents the 'greatest challenge' to the housing sector, according to the president of the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH)
SDLP and British government in welfare talks
09 February, 2012
The SDLP have told the government they must show "flexibility and discretion" when it comes to changing the benefits system in Northern Ireland
Mandatory consideration of revision before appeal
09 February, 2012
DWP consultation - issues relevant to the implementation and operation of the appeals reform provisions in the Welfare Reform Bill - consultation closes 4.5.12
Flint: ban benefit payments for substandard homes
09 February, 2012
Private landlords whose homes do not meet minimum energy efficiency standards should be not be able to house tenants on housing benefit, the shadow energy secretary has argued
SDLP delegation to meet minister over benefits reform
08 February, 2012
An SDLP delegation is to meet the minister for welfare reform later to discuss changes to the benefits system
Peers urged to find new exemption to 'bedroom tax'
08 February, 2012
Controversial plans to cut the housing benefit of tenants living in homes with 'spare rooms' returns to the House of Lords next Tuesday
Localism, Welfare Reform and Housing Market Change: Identifying the issues and responding to the challenge
08 February, 2012
HB cuts could see private landlords 'subdivide' homes for smaller families displaced from social housing leading to overcrowding and homelessness
Impact of welfare reform on the south east housing market - opportunity or hindrance?
08 February, 2012
A CIH report claims that the proposed welfare reforms present serious challenges for the south east & a benefit cap may not be enough to incentivise people to work
Slashing benefits is a breeze when you disregard the detail
08 February, 2012
Warnings over the unfairness of cuts to child benefit and other payments are simply being ignored by the government
Disabled people experiencing 'benefit scrounger' abuse
07 February, 2012
The government's focus on alleged fraud and overclaiming to justify cuts in disability benefits has caused an increase in resentment and abuse directed at disabled people
Government advisor warns of benefit cap harm
07 February, 2012
Plans to cap benefits at £26,000 could harm vulnerable families and needs to be rolled out carefully, a government adviser has warned
Minister calls on landlords to boost credit unions ahead of likely Post Office link-up
06 February, 2012
Welfare reform minister Lord Freud has called on councils and social landlords to help boost their local credit unions
Government benefit cap 'based on myths'
03 February, 2012
The Government's proposed benefits cap is based on a set of myths, a leading charity has claimed
Anger as government halts welfare bill changes
03 February, 2012
The government has come under fire for seeking to use a parliamentary mechanism to prevent further attempts by the House of Lords to change the Welfare Reform Bill
Watchdog shuts down sale and rent back market
03 February, 2012
The Financial Services Authority has shut down the market for businesses that buy homes from struggling homeowners and then rent them back to them
MPs reverse Lords welfare defeats
02 February, 2012
MPs have overturned a series of defeats inflicted on the government's welfare reform bill in the House of Lords
Lords amendments to Welfare Reform Bill beaten
02 February, 2012
The government has succeeded in overturning a series of crucial amendments made by the Lords to the Welfare Reform Bill
Councils forced to meet housing benefit shortfall
02 February, 2012
Local authorities are having to dig into their own budgets to help people meet housing costs, according to government figures
Councils fail to spend £1m earmarked for people at risk of homelessness
01 February, 2012
Six local authorities spend only half the DHP money allocated to them for needy families by the Department for Work and Pensions
Benefit cap: Landlord backs 'nine-months grace' for claimants
01 February, 2012
A housing association has welcomed reports that the Government is to introduce a nine-month transitional period for families affected by the £26,000-a-year benefits cap
'Bedroom tax could cripple me', says father
01 February, 2012
Housing association Bromford is calling for choice and incentives for customers, not penalties, as a planned 'bedroom tax' is discussed in the House of Commons
Labour tables welfare motion as Shapps backs bill
01 February, 2012
The Labour party has tabled a motion calling for the benefit cap to be set by an independent body according to local circumstances, ahead of a series of crunch votes on the Welfare Reform Bill
Under occupation cuts 'would not deliver savings'
01 February, 2012
Proposed cuts to HB for under occupation would cause severe hardship for tenants and not deliver the expected savings, analysis has found
Welfare reform bill - benefit cap Commons live debate
01 February, 2012
Welfare reform bill - benefit cap Commons live debate from the Guardian
The impact of Universal Credit Programme visits to local authorities
01 February, 2012
Feedback and benefits
Analysing the impact of the UK Government's welfare reforms in Wales - stage 1
01 February, 2012
Ministerial Task and Finish Group on Welfare Reform stage 1 report
Landlord estimates arrears bill hit ahead of direct payments pilot
31 January, 2012
David Ashmore, GreenSquare CEX, reveals the landlord's "best estimate" on the impact of direct payments on its arrears bill and considers what's ahead
The impact of cutting housing benefit on under-occupiers in social housing
31 January, 2012
Research reveals the real cost of the bedroom tax
Iain Duncan Smith defiant over benefits cap but concessions expected
30 January, 2012
Removing child benefit from the Government's proposed welfare cap would be "ludicrous" Iain Duncan Smith has said
Labour to back welfare benefits cap
30 January, 2012
Labour party expected to vote in favour of a benefits cap, providing it is set higher in expensive areas such as London
Housing experts warn of homelessness threat
30 January, 2012
The Gov has been warned that its plans for welfare reform are likely to have an impact on homelessness figures and increase the use of B & B's by LA's
Labour wants benefit cap to be set locally
30 January, 2012
Labour has called for the proposed total benefits cap to be set locally rather than at the national limit of £26,000
Tenants demand protection from welfare cuts
30 January, 2012
Campaigners are calling on social landlords not to evict tenants who fall behind on rent payments because of housing benefit cuts
Housing chief calls for child benefit probe after welfare cap rejection
27 January, 2012
A housing boss has called for more clarity on how child benefit is spent - after peers in the House of Lords rejected plans to include it in the £26,000 benefit cap
Housing associations urged to back NHF 'bedroom tax' campaign
27 January, 2012
The NHF is calling on housing associations to support a new campaign to fight a 'bedroom tax' on tenants considered to be under occupying their homes
Don't expect the Tories to regret this bloody battle over benefits
27 January, 2012
Guardian news report
Peers press for details on benefits help
27 January, 2012
The government has come under pressure to publish details of promised transitional arrangements to help people affected by the impact of the proposed total benefits cap
CIH: expect child benefit victory to be overturned
27 January, 2012
The CIH is urging L/Ls to prepare for the consequences of the proposed benefits cap, despite a key defeat for the Gov in the House of Lords this week
London boroughs to be hit hardest by benefit cap
26 January, 2012
54% of London's boroughs contain more than 1,000 households that will be worse off as a result of the government's forthcoming benefit cap
Landlords take 'bedroom tax' fight to MPs
26 January, 2012
Landlords are throwing their weight behind a campaign to stop a 'bedroom tax' on tenants deemed to be underoccupying their homes
PM attacks Labour for 'hypocritical' benefit stance
26 January, 2012
David Cameron has accused Labour of 'hypocrisy' for voting to change the way the £26,000 total benefits cap is calculated despite backing the policy in principle
Welfare reform: Housing association reveals direct payment plans
25 January, 2012
The CEX of Wakefield and District Housing, discusses the landlord's involvement in the 12-month direct payment pilot and what it hopes to learn
Ex-Archbishop Carey attacks bishops over benefit cap
25 January, 2012
Former Archbishop of Canterbury Lord Carey has criticised Church of England bishops for opposing the government's £26,000-a-year cap on benefits
Welfare reform: household benefit cap Q&A;
24 January, 2012
Ministers say a £26,000 cap on the amount of benefits families can receive will cut the deficit and incentivise people to find work - fidn out more
Government undeterred over benefits after Lords defeat
24 January, 2012
The government has vowed to press ahead with controversial plans to limit welfare payments despite a defeat in the House of Lords
Benefit cap defeat 'flies in face of public opinion' - DWP
24 January, 2012
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) says last night's defeat of the £26,000 a year benefits cap in the House of Lords "flies in the face of public opinion".
Landlord to 'rigorously test' direct benefit payments in pilot
24 January, 2012
A housing chief says piloting direct benefit payments to social tenants ahead of Universal Credit will help the landlord "rigorously test the new system" ahead of its implementation in 2013
Benefit cap defeat will be reversed, says Clegg
24 January, 2012
Nick Clegg says ministers will seek to overturn a Lords defeat for plans to cap benefits for households at £26k when the bill returns to the Commons
DWP Stakeholder Bulletin - January 2012
23 January, 2012
This bulletin includes updates on amendments to the Welfare Reform Bill and an update on the switch from DLA to Personal Independence payments (PIP)
Welfare reform bill: household benefit cap Lords debate - live discussion
23 January, 2012
The government is under pressure over proposals critics say will plunge tens of thousands of children into poverty
The Essential Guide to Squeezed Britain
23 January, 2012
The proportion of low and middle income (LMI) earners aged under 35 and renting has more than tripled from 14% in the late 1980s to 47% now, according to the Resolution Foundation
Benefit cut raises housing concerns for u'25s
23 January, 2012
Homelessness charities have raised concerns about the ability of young people to access housing in the private sector following housing benefit cuts brought in this month
Housing benefit cap: can you live on 62p a day?
22 January, 2012
The housing benefit cap will mainly hit stable families on low incomes. Surely this can't be what George Osborne wanted
Paddy Ashdown takes on coalition over benefits cap
22 January, 2012
Former Lib Dem leader says he will vote against government on welfare changes because of effect they would have on children
Leak reveals benefits cap will hit 100,000 children
22 January, 2012
Official figures show many families will be pushed into poverty by coalition reform
Landlord keen on credit union investment ahead of Universal Credit
20 January, 2012
A Merseyside-based housing association says it could invest in its local credit union to support its tenants under Universal Credit
Private tenants urged not to bury their heads in the sand
20 January, 2012
Private tenants in receipt of housing benefit have been urged to contact landlords to negotiate rents. News article by landlord Portfolio
Mixed reaction to Universal Credit direct payment pilots
20 January, 2012
CIH welcomes the direct payments trial with Housing Associations, but the RLA have slammed the trials claiming Private Rented Sector tenants have been "let down"
Benefits cap not about punishing people - Duncan Smith
20 January, 2012
Iain Duncan Smith has told the BBC a planned benefits cap is not "about punishing people", and has said people are "not suffering" under his reforms
Lodger rules to ease impact of bedroom tax
20 January, 2012
Tenants will be able to keep rental income from lodgers without it affecting their benefit entitlement under proposed rule changes
Direct Payment Pilots announced
19 January, 2012
London Residential Landlord Information Network Press release
No Scottish housing association or council named in DWP's direct benefits pilot
19 January, 2012
There are currently no Scottish LA's or HA's signed up to pilot the direct payment of housing benefit to social tenants
Welfare amendments face government fight
19 January, 2012
The government will seek to overturn all amendments to the Welfare Reform Bill when it returns to the House of Commons later in the year
Welfare reform bill - household benefit cap live discussion
19 January, 2012
Government faces further controversy as Lords prepare to debate proposed £26,000 family benefit cap
ALMO offers up to £2,000 for tenants to downsize
18 January, 2012
South Lakes Housing which manages some 3,500 homes in Cumbria is providing up to £2,000 for tenants to voluntarily downsize
The cuts in London: where will Lucy live?
17 January, 2012
A case study looking at the impact of Government Housing Benefit caps
Benefit cut to leave 14,000 Manchester tenants worse off
17 January, 2012
Plans to cut the HB from tenants living in homes with spare rooms from 2013 would leave 14,000 social housing residents in Manchester worse off
Government has 'no plans' to change benefit cap
17 January, 2012
The Department for Work and Pensions has said there are no plans to change the £26,000 cap on benefits despite calls from senior Liberal Democrats
Hughes warns benefit cap will 'break up families'
16 January, 2012
The deputy leader of the Liberal Democrats has attacked the government's plans to cap benefits as part of its overhaul of the welfare system
David Cameron considers extra £25bn of welfare cuts
16 January, 2012
David Cameron is considering ordering billions of pounds in extra welfare cuts proposed in a confidential Downing Street policy paper, The Daily Telegraph can disclose
Peers launch second benefit plans rebellion
13 January, 2012
The government is facing a second battle inside a month to get housing benefit reforms agreed by the House of Lords
MPs call for single body to 'oversee' benefits
12 January, 2012
There should be a single body responsible for overseeing the 'interaction' between different benefits, according to Commons public accounts committee report
Government urged to re-think welfare changes after crushing Lords defeat
12 January, 2012
The Government has been urged to re-think its welfare reform plans after they were dealt a crushing blow in the House of Lords last night
Housing benefit reforms: a huge gamble on rent cuts
12 January, 2012
The government's hope that the cut in housing benefit will result in landlords lowering their rents could backfire.
Number 10 defends PM's private rents claim
12 January, 2012
Number 10 has defended the prime minister's claim that private rents are falling as a result of the coalition government's welfare reforms
David Cameron claims housing benefit cuts have slashed rents
11 January, 2012
David Cameron claims the Gov's HB cuts have brought down rent levels across the country, despite evidence to suggest they are continuing to reach record highs
Benefits system has given people 'false sense of security'
10 January, 2012
Labour leader Ed Miliband says he is not against a household benefit cap and a fairer allocations system for social housing
Local Housing Allowance caps risk 'ghettoising low-income families'
10 January, 2012
New HB caps for existing tenants in the private rented sector risk 'ghettoising low-income families', according to a London charity
The Lords are the last hope to soften the blows aimed at the poor
10 January, 2012
Poor and disabled people are in line for a battery of financial hits of unprecedented intensity under welfare reforms
The impact of welfare reform on housing (CASE report)
10 January, 2012
This paper finds a number of policy areas where perceived short-term savings are likely to be overshadowed by a set of complex problems in the longer-term
Government inflated cost of benefit defeat
06 January, 2012
The government's claim that its 'bedroom tax' defeat will cost taxpayers around £300 million in lost savings has been disputed by the NHF
Social security 'reforms' are a litany of welfare cuts
06 January, 2012
Labour has ducked the fight so far, but the truth will out: this is the tightest squeeze on children's living standards yet seen - Guardian news article
Families with children to be worst affected by benefit cuts - IFS
05 January, 2012
Families with children are going to fare much worse than childless couples as a result of benefit cuts, research by the IFS reveals
Impact of housing benefit cap 'worse in Wales' - CIH
05 January, 2012
More than 30,000 homes in Wales will be out of reach of people on HB as a result of the Government's HB cap, according to CIH
Families with children hit by tax and benefit changes
04 January, 2012
Families with children will be hardest hit by tax and benefit changes aimed at cutting the deficit, according to the Family and Parenting Institute
Housing benefit cuts injure us all
03 January, 2012
The effects of removing support from those most vulnerable to homelessness will be felt across society
Available rented housing cuts in your area: download the data
02 January, 2012
The cuts to housing benefit in Jan will leave many people searching for cheaper places to stay,this Guardian report looks at the impact of the cuts
Last Christmas with the kids
29 December, 2011
Changes to local housing allowance could block separated parents from having access to their children
Unemployment set to rise in 2012, suggests CIPD
28 December, 2011
Unemployment will rise further in 2012, peaking at 2.85m in 2013 from 2.64m currently, says the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development
Announcement on direct payment pilots delayed until New Year
23 December, 2011
The Gov has put back the date it will announce the 6 housing Associations & councils who will road test direct benefit payments to tenants to next year
MSPs to withhold consent from UK Welfare Reform Bill
22 December, 2011
MSPs are set to formally protest against changes to the UK benefits system, which some claim will see cuts in payments to the most vulnerable
Where's the peace and goodwill for those on housing benefit?
21 December, 2011
There was no room at the inn for Mary and Joseph,& there's little Xmas cheer for those who will struggle with their rents once the HB cap kicks in
Build to Let: Rethinking the use of housing benefit to help families out of temporary accommodation
20 December, 2011
NLGN report - building new homes for social rent across 10 London boroughs would be cheaper than housing people in B&Bs; and temporary accommodation
Duncan Smith's answer to the housing crisis won't help the poorest
20 December, 2011
Housing benefit reforms could price the low-paid out of the rental market
Lord Freud: Government to review direct payments to tenants
16 December, 2011
The Government has announced it is to review its plans to pay housing benefit direct to tenants under the new Universal Credit system
DWP anger at defeat of bedroom tax
16 December, 2011
A Department for Work and Pensions source reacted angrily to the government's shock House of Lords defeat over welfare reform
Government loses bedroom tax vote after peer brands it 'cruel nonsense'
15 December, 2011
The Gov faced a fierce backlash in the House of Lords where plans to dock the HB of tenants living in homes with a spare room were defeated
Peers urged to back 'bedroom tax' amendment
14 December, 2011
Ahead of the crunch vote in the House of Lords on under-occupation, The Times has published a letter from David Orr, CEX of the NHF
Welfare reform testing NI's 'parity principle'
13 December, 2011
Will Northern Ireland and England have two different welfare systems?
Tenants face £26 a week cut for under-occupation
09 December, 2011
Social tenants on housing benefit who are deemed to be under-occupying their homes stand to lose up to £26.65 a week under government plans
Homeless households increase by 13%
09 December, 2011
Recession, cuts, and high rents have contributed to an 'alarming' leap in the number of homeless people in England
Ministers urged on Welfare Reform Bill
08 December, 2011
Scottish ministers have been urged to think about new laws to soften the "significant" impact of planned changes to the UK benefits system
Transcript of the speech by Minister for Welfare Reform Lord David Freud
07 December, 2011
Capita Welfare Reform Conference on 6 December 2011. He talks about the Universal Credit and Support for Mortgage Interest payments.
Austerity: the rise of the Royle family lifestyle
07 December, 2011
Recession has led to a boom in "multi-generational households" seeking shelter from financial hardship.
LIN member report - Latest news on Welfare Reform
06 December, 2011
This LIN member report is written by Peter Hall, Director, PHHS
Universal Credit may not hit tenants until 2017
06 December, 2011
Almost 500,000 HB claimants could continue to receive their money in the same way up to 4 years after the implementation of Universal Credit
Housing benefit caps force families out of town
06 December, 2011
Benefit caps are pushing the poorest families out of inner-city areas into already overstretched boroughs
Housing benefit cuts: young people face a homelessness 'perfect storm'
06 December, 2011
Recession and spending cuts have already caused a spike in youth homelessness
Martha Lane Fox: almost half offline population lives in social housing
05 December, 2011
The UK digital champion calls on housing professionals to play their part in bridging the digital divide
Debt advice could save landlords £50 million
05 December, 2011
Housing associations should invest in debt advice programmes to avoid evictions and tackle homelessness, a new study claims
Get Britain working
02 December, 2011
Get Britain working - back to work support from Jobcentre Plus - FAQs
Spending cuts blamed for rising benefit bill
02 December, 2011
Housing bodies have blamed government spending cuts for adding nearly £2 billion to the cost of housing benefit over the next five years
Cuts fail to halt £2bn rise in housing benefit costs
01 December, 2011
Housing benefit costs will rise by nearly £2 billion by 2016 despite government efforts to cut the bill
Ministers announce U-turn on mobility benefit cut
01 December, 2011
Controversial plans to axe some benefit payments to disabled people living in care homes are being dropped
Lone parent obligations: work, childcare and the Jobseeker's Allowance regime
01 December, 2011
Centre for Economic and Social Inclusion (CESI) report
Lord Freud resists benefit cap amendments
29 November, 2011
Welfare reform minister Lord Freud has faced more questions in parliament from peers worried about the proposed benefit cap for workless households
Scottish Housing Benefit changes
28 November, 2011
Information briefings from the Scottish Gov considering the impact of these measures on households in Scotland and on Scottish housing policy
Benefit threat to human rights
25 November, 2011
Whitehall plans to cap benefit for workless households could violate the Human Rights Act, according to the Equality and Human Rights Commission
Benefits cap to hit 5,000 Westminster tenants
25 November, 2011
Up to 5,000 private tenants in Westminster are going to be directly affected by the benefits cap from 2013
LIN member report - How to survive Welfare Reform, top tips
24 November, 2011
This LIN member report is written by Peter Hall, Director, PHHS
Freud rejects change to calculation of cap
22 November, 2011
Welfare reform minister Lord Freud has indicated the government is not willing to change the way the proposed £500pw cap on benefits is calculated
London boroughs could buckle over housing benefit cuts
16 November, 2011
Cheaper London boroughs could buckle as a result of housing benefit cuts in the private sector, a politician in the city has warned
Benefit warning to 'under-employed' tenants
14 November, 2011
Employed tenants could have their housing benefit cut if they do not work enough hours and do not look for more or better paid work.
Welfare reform to hit 133,000 London households
11 November, 2011
Does the Cap fit? An analysis of the impact of Welfare Reform in London. A research report commissioned by London Councils
Community work for the long term unemployed
10 November, 2011
People unemployed for more than two years who haven't secured sustainable employment could be referred onto compulsory community work placements
Welfare Reform Bill Universal Credit - Equality Impact Assessment
10 November, 2011
This assessment provides a brief outline of the relative impact of Universal Credit on the different groups as defined by equality legislation
New tenancy being looked at for direct payments switch
10 November, 2011
A new type of tenancy agreement is being considered to reduce the impact of HB being paid directly to tenants under Universal Credit
Deadline for direct payment pilot has now closed
09 November, 2011
The deadline for social L/L's wanting to apply to take part in the Department for Work and Pensions direct payment of benefit pilots has now closed
Universal Credit: crunch decisions to be made on housing payments
08 November, 2011
Government ministers will meet this week as they look to define the 'vulnerability criteria' for social sector landlords
Tenants take their welfare reform concerns to Parliament
08 November, 2011
Tenants from 15 housing associations have taken their concerns about proposed welfare reforms to Parliament
Social housing reform:
06 November, 2011
Which areas will become unaffordable for low-income households?
Benefits changes 'will hit poorest'
02 November, 2011
Reforming benefits could undo attempts to improve life chances in Wales, First Minister Carwyn Jones has warned
Next steps for moving claimants onto Universal Credit are announced
02 November, 2011
The timetable for the introduction of the new Universal Credit has been published by the government
Benefits cut for offenders could rise to £25
29 October, 2011
The maximum amount that people on benefit can have docked to pay fines will increase to £25 a week, the government has said
Britons back squeeze on welfare benefits, suggests poll
27 October, 2011
British people are overwhelmingly in favour of having a welfare state, but most want it tightened up, a poll for BBC News suggests
Universal Credit
25 October, 2011
Information updated with a case study from Colchester Borough Council on realising the benefits of e-claim
Vulnerable tenants 'likely to be higher than 10%'
24 October, 2011
According to June Barnes, East Thames Chief Executive, ahead of the Universal Credit pilot
Lord Freud refuses to budge on direct payments to tenants
21 October, 2011
An amendment which would have given tenants the choice to have their HB paid directly to their landlord under Universal Credit has been withdrawn
Court rules to allow discriminatory impacts of Housing Benefit cuts
17 October, 2011
The High Court of Justice has passed down judgment in favour of the Government in a Judicial Review brought by Child Poverty Action Group
Universal Credit
14 October, 2011
Councils should retain administrative responsibility for housing benefit, a report by CLG select committee has warned
Peers urged to 'stand by tenants' in direct payments battle
12 October, 2011
Housing bodies call on the Gov to accept an amendment to the Welfare Reform Bill which would enable tenants to choose who receives their HB
Child and working-age poverty
11 October, 2011
Universal Credit not enough to prevent a decade of rising poverty - report by the Institute of Fiscal Studies
DWP: Perceptions of welfare reform and universal credit
10 October, 2011
Report presenting findings of a study carried out between Dec 10-Jan 11 which explores the views of claimants, staff, employers and the wider public
How social sector landlords can be paid benefits direct
05 October, 2011
LIN member report by Claire Turner looks at how, following Welfare Reform, HB payments could continue to be paid directly to social sector landlords
How private sector landlords can be paid benefits direct
05 October, 2011
LIN member report by Claire Turner, Director, LIN, looks at how HB payments could be paid directly to private sector landlords
Welfare worries
26 September, 2011
Universal Credit at the top of The Treasury "to watch" list, at risk of running over schedule, over budget or failing to be launched at all
LIN welcomes direct payment pilots but remains concerned over the lack of tenant choice
19 September, 2011
London Residential Landlord Information Network press release
Leaked letter reveals Michael Gove's concerns over Universal Credit
16 September, 2011
A leaked letter has revealed concerns about the switch to the new Universal Credit system from 2013 and its impact on vulnerable families
Anger as Welfare Reform Bill debate 'squirreled away' from public scrutiny
14 September, 2011
Peers have agreed to hold the committee stage of the Welfare Reform Bill away from the main chamber of the House of Lords
Lord Freud reveals direct payments pilots at NHF conference
14 September, 2011
Welfare reform minister Lord Freud has announced half-a-dozen pilots that will test out direct payments to social housing tenants
Under Universal Credit the majority of claimants renting in the social sector will begin receiving benefits direct
14 September, 2011
Six Demonstration Projects are being set up to trial direct payments to Housing Benefit claimants living in social sector housing
English language training for job seekers on benefits
14 September, 2011
Jobseekers whose lack of English is preventing them from getting a job will have to attend English language training or lose benefits
Speech by Lord David Freud, Welfare Minister
14 September, 2011
At the National Housing Federation Annual Conference
Public accounts committee's question welfare reforms
13 September, 2011
Concerns raised about Whitehall's ability to deliver welfare reforms, while at the same time cutting £2.7bn from the DWP
Landlords unite to challenge government on tenants' welfare payments
13 September, 2011
The aim is to get an amendment into the Welfare Reform Bill allowing tenants the choice of having HB paid directly to their landlord
Discretionary Housing Payments data 2025/11
13 September, 2011
Discretionary Housing Payments data for the year 2025/11 by local authority, their allocation and the proportion actually used by the LA
Welfare benefits to be paid monthly
13 September, 2011
Many welfare benefits will be paid monthly in an effort to prepare people for the world of work, ministers have said.
Universal Credit
12 September, 2011
Information on Universal Credit briefing notes has been updated by DWP
Top tips: the financial impact of welfare reform
10 September, 2011
What impact will the government's welfare reforms have on local government finance?
Lone parents combining work and welfare: the role of mini jobs and other interventions
01 September, 2011
Centre for Economic and Social Inclusion CESI) report
10-point guide to housing benefit changes and what they mean for social care
08 August, 2011
News report from Communitycare.co.uk
The work programme
03 August, 2011
The DWP Work Programme is a major new payment-for-results welfare-to-work programme that has now launched throughout Great Britain.
Government accused of 'social cleansing' in High Court housing benefit battle
21 July, 2011
24dash.com news report
Government's Welfare Reform Bill delayed
15 July, 2011
The Government has been forced to delay the 2nd Reading of the Welfare Reform Bill until 13.9.11.
Money on the move
24 June, 2011
The introduction of a universal credit has left landlords wondering if benefits will bypass them and leave rent unpaid
Review of the provision of passported benefits under Universal Credit
22 June, 2011
DWP consultation on possible approaches. Consultation start date: 15 June 2011. Consultation end date: 22 July 2011
UK Housing review June 2011
21 June, 2011
Chartered Institute of Housing report by Hal Pawson and Steve Wilcox
Making work pay in London under Universal Credit
01 June, 2011
Centre for Economic and Social Inclusion (CESI) report
Welfare Reform April 2011 (private sector)
01 April, 2011
Welfare reform and the forthcoming changes to Housing Benefit and Local Housing Allowance. Member report by Claire Turner, Director, LIN
Welfare Reform April 2011 (social sector)
01 April, 2011
Welfare reform and the forthcoming changes to Housing Benefit and Local Housing Allowance. Member report by Claire Turner, Director, LIN (report added to site 5.10.11)
The impact of Welfare Reform Bill measures on affordability for low income renting families
07 March, 2011
Shelter policy research report
Welfare Reform Bill 2011
16 February, 2011
On 16 February 2011 the Welfare Reform Bill was introduced to Parliament. The Bill legislates for the biggest change to the welfare system for over 60 years.
Benefits cap to hit 5,000 Westminster tenants
25 January, 2011
Up to 5,000 private tenants in Westminster are going to be directly affected by the benefits cap from 2013, according to the man responsible for housing in the borough
Universal credit - Welfare that works
11 November, 2025
The Coalition Government's plans to introduce legislation to reform the welfare system by creating a new Universal Credit