In a significant move to reshape the welfare landscape, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has unveiled a major tightening of the rules governing Universal Credit. The changes, which came into effect this week, will compel hundreds of thousands of benefit claimants to intensify their search for work.
The reform specifically targets individuals in the "Light Touch" work group, who are currently expected to spend less time looking for employment. Under the new regime, the administrative earnings threshold (AET) has been increased from the equivalent of 15 to 18 hours per week at the National Living Wage.
What the New Rules Mean for Claimants
This adjustment means that any single claimant earning below £892 per month, or a couple earning below £1,437 per month, will now be moved into the "Intensive Work Search" group. This group faces much stricter requirements and more frequent contact with a work coach.
The key changes include:
- A mandatory commitment to spend up to 35 hours a week actively searching and applying for jobs.
- Compulsory attendance at meetings with work coaches.
- Accepting a job offer in any sector, not just one's previous field of expertise.
- The risk of having benefits stopped entirely for those who fail to meet these conditions without a valid reason.
Government's Stance and Rationale
Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride has defended the policy, stating it is designed to fill vacancies and boost the economy. "We are rewriting the rulebook to focus on what people can do, not what they can't," he said. The government argues that with over 900,000 job vacancies in the economy, it is reasonable to expect those who can work to take active steps to do so.
However, the move has been met with sharp criticism from charities and opposition parties. Organisations like the Joseph Rowntree Foundation have warned that the changes could push already vulnerable individuals into deeper poverty, arguing that the system often fails to account for the real-world barriers people face, such as a lack of affordable childcare or suitable local jobs.
Potential Impact and Next Steps
It is estimated that around 180,000 more people will be subject to the intensive work search conditions. Claimants are urged to check their journal on the Universal Credit online portal to understand how their specific circumstances are affected. For those concerned about meeting the new requirements, seeking advice from Citizens Advice or other welfare rights organisations is highly recommended.
