‘People still struggling to get benefits’

A“SIGNIFICANT” number of people are struggling to navigate the Government’s flagship Universal Credit benefits system, according to a new study.

Research by Citizens Advice found that more than a third of those helped by the charity found it difficult to provide evidence on health, housing and childcare, to complete their claim.

It was also revealed that people who receive their first full payment late stand a higher chance of falling into debt.

Citizens Advice said people must wait five weeks before receiving their first Universal Credit payment, so their finances were often already stretched.

The charity called on the Government to simplify the claims process and make sure adequate support was on offer, saying improvements must be urgently put in place.

Gillian Guy, chief executive of Citizens Advice, said: “While Universal Credit is working for the majority of people, our evidence shows a significant minority are struggling to navigate the system.

“With people already having to wait five weeks for their first payment, any further delays risk jeopardising people’s financial security.

“Last year the Government showed it was listening by taking important steps to improve Universal Credit. Those measures are starting to have an impact, but more needs to be done.

“Top of the Government’s list should be simplifying the process and making sure adequate support is in place so that claims can be completed quickly.

A Department for Work and Pensions spokeswoman said: “Universal Credit simplifies an out-of-date, complex system and we welcome Citizens Advice finding that it is working well for the majority of claimants.

“We continue to listen and make any necessary improvements and this report recognises the positive impact of changes we have already made.

“The vast majority of Universal Credit claimants are paid in full and on time and 100% advance payments can be made available within hours.”