Smooth rollout of Universal Credit in Rochdale

Since being rolled out one month ago, the transition to ‘Universal Credit Full Service’ has been smooth, according to the Labour Market Statistics.

The latest figures for May 2018 show there were 4,070 claimants of Jobseekers’ Allowance or Universal Credit. This is 5% less than this time last year, and 43% less than 2010 and 2012.

These figures are likely to be higher next month as the full first month of Universal Credit will account for claimants of other benefits that were previously not included in the count.

Across the country, employment rates are at a record high of 75.6% with 920,000 people in the UK now receiving Universal Credit. Of these, 37% are in employment.

To support the digital online claim processes, all the 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.

Citizens Advice are attending the three local jobcentres to support Universal Credit customers with ‘personal budgeting’ and debt advice.