A number of recently announced changes to the roll out of Universal Credit have been branded as ‘sensible’ by local MP John Lamont.
Changes include the roll out of a free phone helpline number and new guidance to ensure DWP staff offer up-front advance payments to anyone who needs it. In the next few weeks, all helpline numbers to the Department of Work and Pension will be made free.
Welcoming the news, John Lamont also pointed out that there is widespread cross party and third sector support for the policy aims of Universal Credit, and has hit back at the ‘scaremongering’ of local SNP politicians over it’s roll out.
John Lamont MP said: “There has clearly been a concern around the roll-out of Universal Credit and the steps announced by the UK Government are sensible. Fewer than 10% of claimants have been moved over to the new system and it is right that we are taking time to make this significant change.
“However, it’s important to remember that the policy aims behind Universal Credit have cross party and third sector support. That’s because Universal Credit will simplify six benefits with different eligibility and withdrawal criteria into one. It will also make work pay for people on lower incomes because their benefits are gradually reduced so that claimants will no longer lose all their support once in work.
“The latest data is clear that claimants receiving Universal Credit move into work quicker and in greater numbers than those on Job Seeker’s Allowance.
“The concerns surrounding Universal Credit are limited to its implementation, which is why I’ve been disappointed with the level of scaremongering about this issue to come from local SNP politicians.
“Anyone who is waiting for money under Universal Credit can receive help. Advance payments are available and paid within days and if someone is in immediate need, payments can be fast tracked to be received on the same day. These changes will mean greater support for anyone who is struggling as a result of the move to Universal Credit."