Darlington Council expecting problems with Universal Credit roll-out

Darlington Borough Council say efficiencies of Universal Credit are unlikely to be realised for a number of a years, following the introduction of the scheme earlier this year.

Universal Credit is a new benefit, slowly being rolled out by the Government, which replaces six historic benefits and merges them into one payment.

It includes income support, jobseeker's allowance, employment and support allowance, housing benefit, child tax credits, and working tax credits.

The idea of Universal Credit was to simplify the benefits system, however problems with its introduction have reportedly forced benefit claimants into hardship.

Council documents, which will be discussed before Darlington Borough Council's adults and housing scrutiny committee next week, state: "Universal Credit is replacing a number of existing means tested benefits for working age people, including housing benefit administered by the council.

"Universal Credit began roll out in Darlington in November 2015, but was only available to residents in limited circumstances.

"The full roll-out of Universal Credit in Darlington commenced on, June 20. This means that most working aged people making a new claim to benefit or reporting a significant change in their circumstances will now claim Universal Credit.

"The migration of existing claims for housing benefit to Universal Credit will take place between 2019 and 2023, although the exact timetable has not yet been published.

“Council staff have proved typically resilient in dealing with these issues, but the expected efficiencies Universal Credit will deliver are unlikely to be realised for a number of years.

“Staffing resources will be required for the foreseeable future to ensure residents are supported through the application and transition process, whilst ensuring that council tax and rent arrears are kept to a minimum where possible.”

The meeting will take place on Tuesday.