Ongoing News

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The government has issued guidance in relation to some new Benefits law- which amends existing law. (coming into force for the majority of purposes on 27/1/2025).

A Citizens Advice report work makes for interesting reading. 'Found anything yet? Exploring the relationship between Universal Credit claimants and their work coaches' found-
work coaches- 'the majority are passionate about helping People'

The Government has confirmed that Local Housing Allowances (which relate to private sector rents) will not be increased this year.

Since the start of the pandemic in 2020, PIP assessments, have rarely been face to face.

In fact government statistics explain that at the end of last year only 2-3% were face to face. (remote could mean telephone or video)

Next week, we will be sending all our newsletter subscribers a digital link to our free draft Benefits Poster 2025/2026 for professionals. (In mid April 2025 the finalised version will be sent and an offer of free colour hard copies).

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Latest PIP stats. show- a rise in claims and many are successful.

The DWP has announced 'DWP will continue to steadily increase the number of migration notices being sent to people receiving Employment and Support Allowance over the coming months.

An interesting briefing explains that although their effect in any given year is usually not dramatic, Benefit uprating decisions and rules compound over time and have substantially changed the value of benefits, both in real terms and relative to earnings.  A useful illustration of this is t

Somewhat belatedly,  the DWP has confirmed that the Universal Credit online application form will include a question to allow Corporate appointees to be identified and allow them the correct support through flexibility to adapt the journey and build changes into the digital system.

Latest Stats. show- Numbers on UC- There were 7.2 million people on Universal Credit in October 2024.

Since January 2021,  the government has been working on addressing underpayments of State Retirement Pension for clients who should have received an automatic uplift-

The government has confirmed that from April 2025 LHA rates(private sector) will be frozen. This will mean more claimants have short falls in their housing costs, as rents continue to rise.

LHA rates were increased in April 2024 for the first time in 4 years.

The Government has confirmed that Tax Credits will close in April 2025. No further cancellation requests for
migration notices will be offered for tax credit claimants moving forward, however a claimant will be able to ask for

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