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We can take you through Universal Credit applications


By Alison Cameron

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James Sutherland East and Central Sutherland Citizens Advice Bureau
James Sutherland East and Central Sutherland Citizens Advice Bureau

With the UK Government now making changes to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, furloughed employees face a worrying wait to know what changes their employer may have had to make to their businesses.

We know since the beginning of lockdown many people across east and central Sutherland have experienced job losses, changes to their working pattern, or continue to face the uncertainty of potential redundancy.

If you face the unfortunate prospect of redundancy we can advise you of your rights and the obligations on your employer to ensure they follow a fair redundancy process.

Here in Sutherland many people who would ordinarily now be working in the height of the tourist season are struggling to find work, with few opportunities currently available. As a result of these issues, people who have never claimed benefits before are struggling to navigate an unfamiliar system.

For the majority of working aged adults on low incomes, out of work, or unable to work, Universal Credit is the benefit to which they would apply. Universal Credit was introduced in 2013 and replaced a number of means tested benefits including tax credits.

The aim of Universal Credit is to help low income households with their living costs. How much you’ll receive depends on your circumstances – you will receive a standard allowance plus an extra amount, for example, if you have children; have a disability or health condition which prevents you from working; or need help paying your rent. Unlike some historic benefits you can claim Universal Credit if you are working or self-employed, with your Universal Credit payment reducing gradually as you earn more.

You can apply for Universal Credit online; you will need to apply as a couple if you and your partner live together. You cannot claim Universal Credit and tax credits at the same time, if you receive tax credits, these will stop when you apply for Universal Credit.

Once you have applied you will make an agreement with your Department for Work and Pensions work coach. The commitments you will be asked to make depend on your circumstances, this might include activities such as writing a CV, looking and applying for jobs, going on training courses.

Applying for Universal Credit or other benefits can be daunting but if you want help in making a claim for Universal Credit, or any other benefit, you can contact us here at the bureau. As trained advisers we can guide you through the process, whether you have a quick question or prefer step by step support.


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