Jobseekers forced to widen job search faster or face cuts to Universal Credit

Photo: Gary L Hider - stock.adobe.com

If people are not able to find work in their previous occupation or sector within 4 weeks they are expected to look for work in another sector

Jobseekers claiming Universal Credit will have to look for jobs outside their chosen field sooner or face sanctions under new government plans.

As of Thursday (27 January), people have to expand their job search after just four weeks, rather than the current three months.

The ‘Way to Work’ proposal means if people are not able to find work in their previous occupation or sector, they are expected to look for work in another sector and this will be part of their requirements for receiving their benefit payment.

The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed that those who “do not engage” risk facing sanctions, including cuts to Universal Credit payments.

Latest figures from the ONS show that there are 1.2 million vacancies to fill, 59% higher than pre-pandemic levels and the government is aiming to get 500,000 jobseekers in work by the end of June.

Work and Pensions Secretary Thérèse Coffey said: “Helping people get any job now, means they can get a better job and progress into a career.

“Way to Work is a step change in our offer to claimants and employers, making sure our jobcentre network and excellent work coaches can deliver opportunities, jobs and prosperity to all areas of the country.

“As we emerge from Covid, we are going to tackle supply challenges and support the continued economic recovery by getting people into work.

“Our new approach will help claimants get quickly back into the world of work while helping ensure employers get the people they and the economy needs.”