Nearly two-thirds claim Universal Credit in some UK areas

A new report shows that nearly two-thirds of households in some parts of the UK are receiving Universal Credit. This data comes amid ongoing debates within the government about benefit cuts. Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall is set to announce new limits on handouts, despite pushback from some Labour MPs and colleagues. The report highlights that in the Perry Bar area of Birmingham, 64.2% of households claim Universal Credit, which is significantly higher than the national average of 25.2%. Most regions with high claimant rates are located in Birmingham, London, or Bradford. The government aims to reduce the rising costs of benefits, which reached £48 billion in the last fiscal year. They estimate it could rise to £67 billion by 2029. More than half of the claimants in the eight areas with the highest rates are on Universal Credit. Kendall’s upcoming plan includes ending the 'work capability assessment', which determines eligibility for disability benefits. It also proposes cutting the top rate of Universal Credit while increasing the basic rate and investing in job support programs. However, changes to the personal independence payment (PIP), which helps disabled individuals manage their living costs, are controversial. Reports suggest that while the government may not freeze PIP payments, it might make it harder to qualify for them in the future. Some Labour MPs express serious concerns, claiming the proposed reforms could worsen conditions for those who are already vulnerable. Others, including union leaders, argue that the changes could result in more people being trapped in poverty. Prominent party figures are divided on the issue, with some feeling that reforms are necessary for the long-term wellbeing of claimants.