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Working mothers win Judicial Review action - Universal Credit

Four working mothers, supported by Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) and Leigh Day Solicitors, defeat DWP in a Judicial Review hearing, relating to the treatment of their earnings in the assessment of their Universal Credit award. At paragraph 68 of the judgement it concludes: “On a proper interpretation of regulation…

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Universal Credit - 'Hits students harder'

Students who claim universal credit are being hit harder by reductions than people who are in work, according to the NUS. Under universal credit, for every £1 that someone earns through work, they will see 63p deducted from their monthly payments. However, for students, their loans and grants are treated…

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Universal Credit Full Service rolls out in Edinburgh

The controversial Universal Credit benefit system is being rolled out across Edinburgh. Food-banks say they are preparing for increased demand, as those being moved to the new system can expect a five weeks wait for their first payment. An estimated 10,500 local council tenants are expected to be moved to…

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Universal Credit - UT Decision CUC-2385-2016

Upper-tier Decision CUC-2385-2016 https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5a1e68d6ed915d6662f29354/CUC_2385_2016-00.pdf Summary 1. The principal issue on this appeal is whether a room must be capable of accommodating a bedside table and separate clothes storage furniture in order to be considered a bedroom for the purposes of housing benefit and universal credit under-occupancy legislation. This might seem…

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NAO report criticises DWP for Benefit changes

Report by National Audit Office criticising DWP’s handling of its welfare reform strategy and lack of forethought on size of exercise…

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Rising political concern over Bedroom Tax implementation & effect!

Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg has revealed the Coalition has instructed “independent” research into the impact of the bedroom tax (single room subsidy). It is believed the research has been initiated due to rising concern among senior Liberal Democrat figures about the policy’s implementation and the deep seated resentment this…

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Claims and payments regulations for Universal Credit 2013

These regulations provide for, amongst other things: How and when to make a claim for UC; Effective date of claim; Time within which a claim needs to be completed; Evidence required to support a claim; Payment arrangements, including payment to Third Parties (APAs etc); Withdrawal of claim; How and when…

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JSA - Mandatory Job-search attendance - 35 hours per week!

The Government has announced yet another trial project, this time focused on the long term unemployed and those that need specialist help when seeking work. In return for receiving their benefit, some Jobseeker’s Allowance claimants will be required to undertake supervised jobsearch activity. Under the trials, due to commence in…

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