DWP Phases Out Legacy Benefits with Two-Week Transition Support
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed the scrapping of six legacy benefits, offering claimants just two additional weeks of payments as they migrate to Universal Credit. This significant policy shift has sparked intense scrutiny in Parliament, with Labour MPs raising urgent concerns about potential financial hardship and distress for vulnerable individuals.
Parliamentary Scrutiny Over Migration Risks
Ben Coleman, Labour MP for Chelsea and Fulham, directly challenged the government in the Commons, demanding an assessment of the risks associated with the Universal Credit migration process. He specifically questioned the potential for harm, including financial hardship, distress, or loss of income resulting from this transition.
In response, Sir Stephen Timms, Labour MP for East Ham, outlined the DWP's commitment to ensuring a smooth and safe transition for all affected individuals, with particular attention to disabled claimants. He emphasized that the department is implementing measures to mitigate risks during this critical period.
Legacy Benefits Being Discontinued
The six legacy benefits being phased out include:
- Child Tax Credit
- Working Tax Credit
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Housing Benefit
Claimants moving from these benefits to Universal Credit will continue to receive their legacy payments for two weeks following their migration. This temporary support is designed to ease the transition from fortnightly to monthly payment schedules.
Transitional Protection and Enhanced Support
Sir Stephen Timms clarified that claimants who would receive lower benefits under Universal Credit will have their current cash awards transitionally protected at the higher rate. To further support vulnerable individuals, the DWP has established comprehensive assistance arrangements.
These include an enhanced Support Journey for those facing additional challenges, such as claimants moving from Employment and Support Allowance. This approach involves:
- Proactive contact with vulnerable customers
- Extended timeframes for making Universal Credit claims
- Home visits where necessary
- Multiple support channels including a dedicated helpline
- Face-to-face assistance in Jobcentres
- Independent support through Citizens Advice's Help to Claim service
Accessibility and Safeguarding Measures
The DWP has implemented specific accessibility measures to ensure no claimant is left behind during this transition. These include telephone claims for those unable to access online services, Video Relay Services for British Sign Language users, and alternative communication formats for individuals with specific needs.
Additionally, over 150 Complex Case Coaches are providing personalized assistance and working closely with local safeguarding teams to support particularly vulnerable individuals through this challenging transition period.
