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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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Lord Freud - Speaking at IRRV Conference - 2nd October 2013

Lord Freud was speaking yesterday at the IRRV’s annual benefits & revenues conference, which is always well attended by council delegates from all parts of the UK. His full speech can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/welfare-reforms-progress-update He really says nothing we haven’t already heard. Basically, he applauds councils for the cooperation…

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