The Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Communities Committee [19.10.17] agreed a range of recommendations on Universal Credit.
Councillor Andy Ferguson, chair of the Communities committee, said: “Protecting our most vulnerable people and being inclusive are key priorities for our Council. I’m seriously concerned about the impact that Universal Credit will have on some or our most vulnerable people. It is vital that our Council can offer enhanced support to people who are already under severe financial pressure.”
Councillor John Martin, vice chair, said: “As a Council, we must do all that we can to ensure the wellbeing of local people. Universal credit will present a major challenge for us and the people we represent. It will be essential for us to be able to deliver robust support to those affected.”
The committee:
• Noted that Universal Credit will start in Dumfries and Galloway in February 2018;
• Noted potential impacts and financial implications for the Council and those receiving Universal Credit;
• Noted the work of the Universal Credit Delivered Locally [UCDL] partnership group; and
• Agreed the Universal Credit action plan as a base for the Council’s preparations to implement Universal Credit.
The Council is committed to protecting vulnerable people and will do everything within its powers to ensure that people can access assistance in all our local Customer Service Centres. Assistance will include access to computers to fill in online application forms and access to telephones to contact the Universal Credit helpline.
Universal Credit is a UK Government scheme aimed at people who are working but on a low income or who are out of work. It will be calculated and paid monthly. Universal Credit will replace 6 current benefits [referred to as legacy benefits]: Job Seekers Allowance, Income Related Support Allowance, Income Support, Housing Benefit, Child Tax Credit, and Working Tax Credit.
See full committee report: [Agenda item 7]: HERE
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