82
Throughout the inquiry we heard evidence from stakeholders who said the Universal Credit application system...
Conclusion
Throughout the inquiry we heard evidence from stakeholders who said the Universal Credit application system had coped with the quick expansions of applications over the past year. David Eiser of The Fraser of Allander Institute, an economic research organisation, noted that ‘in general the Universal Credit system seemed to cope pretty well with this surge in claims.’205 Suzanne Lavelle from Southside Housing Association also mentioned that the system had proved robust under the pressure of the weight of claims being made for Universal Credit in the first few months of the covid-19 pandemic. They said the system had ‘held up well for the people who have digital skills. The DWP has to be commended for the amount of work that has been put into processing the huge influx of claims that it had.’206
Government Response
Not Addressed
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
It is positive to see DWP’s response to the pandemic highlighted in the report, reflecting on the fact that Universal Credit was able to stand up to the challenge faced during covid leading to increased number of claimants. The increase in work coaches by 1,152 in Scotland, and the increase in specialist disability employment advisors, helped to ensure access to reserved benefits was improved for claimants in Scotland. The tribute to DWP employees (referenced in Paragraphs 15, 23, 81 and 93), will be particularly appreciated by colleagues throughout the country.
Source
Committee
Scottish Affairs Committee
Inquiry
Welfare policy in Scotland
Report
Second Report - Welfare policy in Scotland
23 Jun 2021
HC 55
Addressee Bodies
Scotland Office
Timeline
Recommendation age
4.9 yrs
Report published
23 Jun 2021