Claimant count increases as Universal Credit rolls out

The local claimant count has increased by 12% since last year as the rollout of Universal Credit continues.

According to the Labour Market Statistics, the latest figures show there were 4,550 claimants in September.

The figures are higher than previous months as the claimant count for Universal Credit accounts for claimants of other benefits that were previously not included, such as housing benefit, income support and child tax credits.

Being rolled out across the UK through ‘managed migration,’ the new benefit replaces six means-tested benefits and tax credits.

Managed migration in a transferal to the new system from an existing benefit or tax credit, and began in Rochdale in June this year.

A DWP spokesperson said: “We have long said that we will take a slow and measured approach to managed migration. This will not begin in January 2019, but later in the year, after a period of preparation.

 “For a further year we will then begin migration working with a maximum of 10,000 people, continuing with our ‘test and learn’ approach. This is to ensure the system is working well for claimants and to make any necessary adaptions as we go.”

“We will publish full plans for the next stage of Universal Credit rollout, including managed migration, in due course.”

To support the digital online claim processes, all local libraries have free computer and wi-fi for residents to use, and ‘one to one’ support in making a Universal Credit claim and using their Universal Credit account, in addition to the support provided in the local jobcentres.