Universal Credit will cause 'social fallout' in UK says expert 1769444794UCLGiXjv
Universal Credit is currently available through the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) - an official component of the government. The benefit payment was designed to replace six older or ‘legacy’ benefits to streamline the system of support across Britain. To be eligible, one must be over 18 in most circumstances, under State Pension age, and have less than £16,000 in savings.
Universal Credit is available to people who are either on a low income or who have found themselves out of work.
As such, the benefit provides an important financial boost to those who need it most.
And many will be looking for the best ways to ensure they are supported with their day to day costs.
Some people who are claiming Universal Credit may be able to receive up to £150 per week.
This is through an alternative benefit known as the Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
PIP is designed to help people meet the costs associated with a long term health condition or disability.
And as Universal Credit provides support to individuals who cannot work due to these reasons, PIP could provide additional support.
The amount a person ultimately receives through PIP is dependent on how their condition affects them, rather than the condition itself.
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But those entitled could receive between £23.60 and £151.40 per week.
To be eligible, the government explains, a person must have a condition or disability where they:
- have had difficulties with daily living or getting around (or both) for at least three months
- expect these difficulties to continue for at least nine months
And traditionally, a person usually needs to have lived in England, Scotland or Wales for at least two of the last three years.
PIP is split into two parts: daily living, and mobility - designed to provide tailored support.
The daily living payment helps those who need assistance with their day to day lives in activities such as dressing and undressing, preparing or eating food, managing medicine and engaging with other people.
Whereas the mobility part of PIP is available to those who need help moving around or leaving the home.
Those who think they may be entitled to PIP will be assessed by an independent healthcare professional.
This ultimately helps the DWP decide the level of help a person needs.
But the payment is tax-free and issued every four weeks, so it could end up being particularly useful for those who need it.
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The standard rate of Universal Credit is based on a person’s age and relationship status.
Single people under the age of 25 can receive £342.72, whereas older single people are entitled to £409.89 per month.
Those in a couple where both are under 25 get £488.59 to split between them.
And where one or more partners is over 25, they will receive £594.04 to share.
Additional amounts are available, for example, for those with a disability or health condition.
If a person has limited capability for work and work-related activity, they could receive an extra £341.92 from the government to provide assistance.