-
Over 9 in 10 Employment and Support Allowance [ESA] customers
invited to move now on modern benefit system as historic
transformation nears completion
-
Minister for Social Security and Disability encourages people
to make the move and use the successful support in place if
needed
Almost a quarter of a million people on Employment Support
Allowance (ESA) have successfully
made the move to Universal Credit thanks to tailored support
offered by the Department for Work and Pensions, shows new
research published earlier this week [Tuesday
11 November].
Since July 2024, ESA customers have been
moving at scale to the modern Universal Credit system, which
offers more flexible support tailored to individual circumstances
– whether people are seeking work or managing health
conditions.
New data published today reveals over 95% of ESA customers invited
to move have successfully transitioned to Universal Credit – over
three-quarters of a million (750,423) – with around 40% of those
eligible taking up the offer of personalised support from the
DWP.
The specialist support – known as the Enhanced Support Journey –
includes phone calls, home visits and support from dedicated
teams to help customers who are more likely to be vulnerable
access the benefits they're entitled to.
The transition follows the Government's announcement of an above
inflation boost to the standard allowance – an extra £725 in cash
terms by 2029/30 for single people aged 25 and over. This is the
biggest permanent real-terms boost to out-of-work support since
the 1980s, according to the Institute for Fiscal Studies.
Minister for Social Security and Disability, Sir , said:
Over 220,000 vulnerable people have now got the specialist
support they need to move to Universal Credit – proof that we're
delivering a social security system that has respect at its
heart.
We're making sure no one gets left behind, offering real help
throughout the process via our helpline, online guidance, and
Citizens Advice support.
If you get that letter asking you to move to Universal Credit,
don't ignore it – it's crucial to respond, so you can keep
getting the support you're entitled to.
Research shows that the tailored support allayed fears by helping
vulnerable claimants understand their migration notice, while
dispelling any misconceptions. Those who received a home visit
were also helped with budgeting and understanding payment dates
and amounts.
Terry – who was supported to move to Universal Credit –
said:
The support made all the difference. At first, I found the
process challenging – particularly transferring information about
my rent.
But once I connected with Work Coach Des, everything changed. He
guided me through each step and sorted everything out
brilliantly.
It's great having one dedicated person who really understands
your situation. Des explained things clearly and made the whole
process smooth.
The support is definitely there when you need it – you just need
to find the right person to help, and then everything falls into
place.
With legacy benefits Income Support and Income-based Jobseekers'
Allowance confirmed to close at the start of April 2026, the
Government is achieving welfare modernisation as part of the Plan
for Change to deliver public service renewal.
To help all claimants through the transition, multiple support
channels are available, including a dedicated helpline,
face-to-face Jobcentre appointments, and free independent advice
through Citizens Advice's Help to Claim service.
The Enhanced Support Journey makes up a key part of the
Government's ongoing commitment to put disabled people at the
heart of policy design and delivery, with Zara Todd leading an
Independent Disability Advisory Panel to guide future decisions
on health and disability issues.
Additional Information
