The Department for Work and Pensions has announced sweeping changes to Universal Credit that will affect hundreds of thousands of claimants with health conditions across Britain.
In a significant policy shift, over 180,000 people currently in the Limited Capability for Work Related Activity (LCWRA) group will be moved to the Limited Capability for Work category, requiring them to engage with work coaches and take steps toward employment.
What the changes mean for claimants
The reforms, part of the government's "back to work" initiative, mean that approximately 184,000 individuals will no longer receive the additional £390 monthly payment that comes with LCWRA status. More significantly, they'll be required to attend meetings with work coaches and undertake work-related activities.
Those who fail to comply with the new requirements could face benefit sanctions, adding financial pressure to households already dealing with health challenges.
Who will be affected?
The changes primarily target claimants with mobility and mental health conditions who the government believes could potentially work with appropriate support. The DWP estimates this represents about 21% of the 862,000 people currently in the LCWRA group.
Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride emphasised that those with the most severe conditions will remain protected, stating: "We're expanding the support for those who can work while protecting those who can't."
Timeline for implementation
The transition will occur gradually from September 2025, affecting existing claimants first. New claimants will fall under the updated system from 2026/27 onward.
This forms part of broader reforms to the Work Capability Assessment, which the government claims will help an additional 25,000 people enter employment by 2028/29.
Mixed reactions to the reforms
While the government frames these changes as providing additional support, disability charities have expressed serious concerns. Organisations including Scope and Mind have warned that forcing people with health conditions into work-related activities could worsen mental health and financial stability.
Critics argue that the reforms overlook the complex realities of living with health conditions and the significant barriers many face in finding suitable employment.
The success of these changes will depend heavily on the quality of support provided and the sensitivity with which work coaches handle vulnerable claimants' circumstances.
