Universal Credit claimants and those receiving benefits are being warned to avoid having their payments decreased or halted, as half a million have been penalised.
Universal Credit Claimants Warned as Payments Cut for Many
According to the most recent figures from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), around 571,970 individuals were sanctioned between May 2023 and April 2024, reports the Birmingham Live.
Among these, 535,750 encountered payments cuts because they missed a obligatory interview with a Jobcentre work support adviser. The research has also found that 16,300 had their payments halted for choosing to remain unemployed.
And around 11,900 claimants had their payments switched because they refused to go on employment programmes.
According to the report, 6,700 people were penalised for failing to provide a valid cause for quitting their jobs.
Experts' Advice on Avoiding Universal Credit Sanctions
Samuel Thomas, senior policy adviser at charity Z2K, stated: "We're very concerned to see such a high number of people being sanctioned. Being sanctioned can push people into destitution and leave them unable to afford food or pay bills, which only makes it harder to find work."
He went on to say: "If you have been sanctioned you should seek advice immediately as you can appeal against a sanction and seek a back payment if wrongfully sanctioned. You can also apply for a hardship payment to get emergency money.”
There are four kinds of steps someone can follow to prevent being sanctioned. Advice Now suggests: "Make sure that you understand your Claimant Commitment and other 'work-related responsibilities'.
If you don't have one or are having trouble finding one, contact your Jobcentre as soon as you can and request a copy.
"Make sure your Claimant Commitment reflects your circumstances. Avoid doing or not doing things that break your Claimant Commitment. Be really organised and keep records of your dealings with the Jobcentre and everything you do to meet the terms of your Claimant Commitment."