Universal Credit pilot: CAB warns of big problems down the line

Reblogged from Les Bonner:

Citizens Advicehas warned that unless strong support is put in place, many people will struggle to meet living costs and deal with the new online IT system for Universal Credit.

Ahead of an in-depth analysis of Universal Credit to be broadcast on BBC Radio 4 this evening, Citizens Advice has cautioned that the Government is storing up problems for Universal Credit. A CAB in the first Universal Credit pilot area reports that last month 78% of its clients were unable to complete online application forms without assistance.

Tameside CAB, which has been closely involved in the introduction of Universal Credit, confirms today that many people who will shortly move onto the new benefit are already struggling to make ends meet.  Nigel Morgan, Chief Executive of Tameside CAB said that 1,453 of its clients have applied for emergency financial support, many of whom will soon start receiving the new benefit.

Many people seeking emergency financial support required help getting through the online application process from staff in Tameside Citizens Advice Bureau, suggesting the all-online Universal Credit system will be unmanageable for many future claimants.

The national charity’s Chief Executive warns the support required to help people with online applications for emergency financial support is a clear warning sign to ministers that many future Universal Credit claimants will need help managing their money and dealing with online forms.

A recent study carried out by the national charity, surveying its clients, showed that nine out of ten people say they will need some form of support in moving onto the new system.