Universal Credit is a major reform that will transform the welfare state in Britain. The system continues to be rolled out nationally, and I am pleased that Universal Credit is now available in all jobcentres for single claimants. I think it is positive that people claiming Universal Credit are 13 per cent more likely to be in work than people claiming Jobseeker's Allowance, and are earning more money on average.
For those individuals who think they may face difficulties before their first Universal Credit payment, an advance payment can be requested. The maximum amount available as an advance has recently been doubled, as has the amount of time claimants have to repay. Over 50 per cent of new claimants now receive an advance.