The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed a controversial cut to a specific health benefit, which has now come into force. The Universal Credit health top-up has been reduced for some claimants, meaning the department is now paying out less in the health benefit for certain individuals. This change is part of a broader Government welfare overhaul, with some households receiving reduced support.
Details of the Cut
The Universal Credit health top-up, which is paid on top of the standard allowance to people whose disabilities or medical conditions affect their ability to work, has been almost halved for new claimants. Previously worth £97 per week, the top-up has been slashed to £50 for new claimants, except those with the most serious and life-limiting conditions. Existing claimants will not be affected by this change.
Criticism of the Two-Tier System
Critics argue that this creates an unfair two-tier benefits system. Two individuals with the same condition could receive different amounts of support depending on when they applied. The Government has stressed that the Universal Credit standard allowance did rise above inflation in April, providing everyone with more overall support.
Citizens Advice Statement
Citizens Advice explained: "The UC bill cuts the health element of Universal Credit by nearly 50%, to £50 a week for new claimants - except those with the most serious, life-long conditions - from April 2026. For current claimants, and new claimants who meet the new severe conditions criteria, UC health will be maintained at the original rate and uprated depending on the Consumer Price Index (CPI)."
This move has sparked debate about the fairness of the welfare system, with many concerned about the impact on disabled individuals seeking support for the first time.
