MP welcomes improvements to Universal Credit

3rd December 2018
MP welcomes improvements to Universal Credit

Gordon Henderson MP has welcomed improvements to be introduced by the Government for Universal Credit claimants under their Managed Migration regulations.

Mr Henderson lobbied the Government to make improvements during a parliamentary debate. This followed a visit to a Sittingbourne foodbank where concern was raised about the effect Universal Credit was having on some people.

Two key improvements are:

• Installing a two-week run of legacy benefit payments for claimants transferring to Universal Credit, which do not have to be repaid, from July 2020.
• Extending the repayment period for claimants who receive advance payments from 12 to 16 months from October 2021.

Mr Henderson said,

‘I welcome these changes. During my speech in parliament I raised a number of concerns, including the short length of time people had to repay advance payments and it’s good to see that ministers listened.

‘As I pointed out in my speech, Universal Credit is working well in Sittingbourne and Sheppey, not least because of the dedication of local Jobcentre staff. However, the government’s improvements will make the system even better!’.