The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a 72-hour alert for claimants of Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA), and Pension Credit. This comes as payment schedules are adjusted due to May bank holidays.
May Bank Holiday Disruptions
The DWP and the Labour government are implementing significant changes because of the May Bank Holiday on May 4, followed by another on May 25. While these extra days off are welcome, claimants face alterations in their payment timings as the holidays disrupt the operating hours of DWP Jobcentres and phone lines.
The DWP confirmed on X that Jobcentre Plus offices and phone lines will operate normally on Friday, May 1, but will remain closed from Monday, May 4, reopening only on Tuesday, May 5. The second May bank holiday later in the month is expected to follow a similar pattern, with offices and phone lines closed on May 25 and reopening on Tuesday, May 26.
This means DWP claimants will be unable to visit Jobcentres or contact helpline staff for three consecutive days—a total of 72 hours. Claimants can use the appropriate benefit helpline numbers to discuss claims or report changes in circumstances, such as starting work or income changes.
How to Contact the DWP
Claimants can request communications in alternative formats like braille, large print, or audio CD. When calling, you will need your National Insurance number. You can also contact Jobcentre Plus by signing into your online account, with replies available Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm. If you cannot use your Universal Credit account, call the Universal Credit helpline. For Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), Incapacity Benefit, or Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), call 0800 169 0310.
