Gareth Bevan
Universal Credit
Twelve months in: learning from the Pathfinders
Structure of presentation
• Introduction to UC• Scope of the research• Preparations of landlords• Key issues emerging from UC Pathfinders in the
North West• Recommendations• Solutions• What next?
What is Universal Credit?
• Paid to people in and out of work, monthly in arrears
• Replaces Working Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, HB, IS, JSA, ESA
• “Digital by Design”• Places the onus on the individual• Responsive
Scope of the research
• Research methodology
• Solely evidence from associations• Anecdotal• Limited claimant numbers
Preparations
• Proactive• Reactive• Work with staff• Work with tenants• Communication• Processes
Emerging issues…
Application
Emerging issues…
Routing of claims
UC
HB
Emerging issues…
Support Services
Emerging issues…
Benefit advances
Emerging issues…
Vulnerabilities
Emerging issues…
Alternative Payment Arrangements
Emerging issues…
Relationships
Emerging issues…
Data sharing
Recommendations
• Save function• Confirmation• PBS• APAs• Data sharing
Solutions
• Relationships• Regular meetings• LSSF• Processes
What next…?
• Rollout plans• Federation work