Benefits pledge for those fleeing
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced that people fleeing Ukraine and arriving in Scotland and the rest of the UK will be able to claim benefits from the day they arrive.
The DWP is laying emergency regulations today so that those arriving from Ukraine as a result of the Russian invasion can access Universal Credit and jobs support immediately.
Ukrainians will also be eligible for Housing Benefit, Pension Credit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Child Disability Living Allowance, Carers Allowance and Attendance Allowance. Contributions-based Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), and Jobseekers Allowance (JSA) are also available for those Ukrainians who meet the criteria.
The six-month trial will cover the PIP claim and questionnaire forms using a new IT platform. The DWP also confirms translation services are available to help arrivals with phone applications, while Work Coaches will be on hand in DWP Jobcentres to support people making claims online.
DWP staff are also delivering additional face-to-face assistance to those who need it, including tailored support to find work and advice on benefit eligibility, and will continue to do so.
Without the emergency legislation people arriving from Ukraine would be subject to the Habitual Residence Test, meaning they would have to wait up to three months before being able to receive income-related benefits, including Universal Credit.
Commenting on the immediate support, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Thérèse Coffey said:“My priority is that people fleeing the unimaginable horrors in Ukraine to seek safety here get the support and help they need from day one to move forward in their lives immediately.”
Scottish Secretary Alister Jack said: “The UK Government has acted swiftly to ensure Ukrainian refugees arriving in Scotland from as early as this week can claim welfare and jobs support as soon as they get here.
“Scotland and the whole UK has a strong and proud history of welcoming refugees and we are doing everything we can to support people arriving from Ukraine.”
Salvation Army Refugee Response co-ordinator, Major Nick Coke, said: “We welcome the news that Ukrainians coming to the UK will be able to access benefits immediately and for those who are able, help to find suitable work.
“With offices on the ground in Ukraine and the border countries providing emergency food and shelter, The Salvation Army sees first-hand the trauma those displaced by war have experienced. It is fitting that they receive targeted help when seeking refuge in the UK.”