Fund to help claimants of new benefit

THE CITIZENS Advice Bureau is set to receive £39m to help Universal Credit claimants, Esther McVey has announced.

The Work and Pensions Secretary revealed that the cash would fund advisers to help claimants get their first payment on time and be ready to manage it when it arrives.

Ms McVey said the decision to hand responsibility to the CAB was taken after advice from claimants and charities.

The Government has been severely criticised by opposition MPs and campaign groups for its handling of its flagship welfare reform, including warnings that it has pushed families into poverty.

last week ran a series of articles on the impact of the controversial policy in the region. Recipients revealed how they have been plunged into hardship and members of frontline services told of their fears.

Ms McVey said: “I have always said we will steer a new direction and work with partners to deliver vital services, and get Universal Credit right.

“The State cannot, and should not work in isolation and must reach out to work with independent, trusted organisations to get the best support to vulnerable people.

“This brand new partnership with Citizens Advice will ensure everyone, and in particular the most vulnerable claimants, get the best possible support with their claim that is consistently administered throughout the country.”