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Benefits Ending Now as DWP Urges Claimants to Act Fast in Major Payment Shake-Up
More than 1.9 million claimants have moved to Universal Credit, while vulnerable households get extra support and some deadlines extend to summer 2026.
- The Department for Work and Pensions has moved more than 1.9 million people onto Universal Credit, officially closing two legacy benefits as part of a major welfare transition. The Department confirmed the move marks a key milestone in its nationwide "Move to Universal Credit" campaign.
- Universal Credit now serves as the UK's main benefit system, replacing older payments with a single monthly payment. The government says the system is being "modernised" to reflect today's jobs market and "promotes opportunity rather than stifling it."
- More than 65,000 people have already accessed new "Pathways to Work" advisers, with extra support including a dedicated helpline, home visits for hard-to-reach claimants, and tailored assistance for vulnerable households.
- Work and Pensions Minister Stephen Timms said "Vulnerable customers have been at the forefront of this campaign… we are extending the deadline… so they can continue to be supported to make the move." Claimants on ESA and Housing Benefit received extensions until summer 2026.
- Urgent action remains necessary for some claimants to avoid losing payments, as not everyone has been switched yet. Claimants must verify whether their payments are affected and request extensions before their specific deadline expires.
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Total News Sources17
Leaning Left1Leaning Right0Center15Last UpdatedBias Distribution94% Center
Bias Distribution
- 94% of the sources are Center
94% Center
C 94%
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