DWP Rolls Out Emergency Support for Brits Hit by Coronavirus
Following the recent Budget announcements, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has unveiled urgent measures to help those affected by coronavirus. Here’s the lowdown on what’s changing and how you can get support.
Jobcentre Appointments Suspended for Three Months
From Thursday 19 March 2020, benefit claimants won’t need to attend jobcentre appointments for at least three months. Benefits will continue as normal with all in-person attendance requirements put on hold. You can still apply for benefits online if eligible.
Jobcentres remain open to help those who can’t access phones or online services, including homeless people.
Special Rules for Existing Benefit Claimants
If you’re already claiming benefits but can’t attend reassessments or jobcentre meetings due to coronavirus symptoms or self-isolation, the DWP has you covered:
- Disabled and sick claimants won’t lose payments if they miss Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), or Universal Credit assessments. Payments continue while reassessments are rearranged.
- No fit notes required for ESA or Universal Credit claims linked to coronavirus.
- No sanctions if you notify the DWP in advance you’re staying at home or diagnosed with coronavirus—your work commitments will be reviewed and adjusted.
- Mandatory work-search and availability rules are lifted for those self-isolating due to coronavirus.
Fast-Track Financial Help for New Claimants
The government understands many may need urgent cash while stuck at home. Here’s what’s on offer:
- Apply for Universal Credit online and get up to a month’s advance payment instantly—no jobcentre visit needed.
- The usual seven-day waiting period for ESA is waived for coronavirus-related claims. Payments start from day one.
Help for Workers and the Self-Employed
The DWP is changing sick pay rules and Universal Credit support to make it easier to stay off work if you’re ill or self-isolating:
- Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) paid from day one of illness, not day four, retroactive from 13 March 2020.
- SSP covers individuals staying at home under government advice—even if not infected.
- Employers urged to be flexible with evidence required for sick pay claims.
- Proof of need to isolate can come from NHS 111 Online, not your GP (coming soon).
- Self-employed Universal Credit claimants won’t face Minimum Income Floor penalties while off work due to coronavirus.
Businesses Can Reclaim Sick Pay Costs
The government is backing smaller businesses by letting employers with under 250 staff reclaim SSP costs, covering up to two weeks of sick pay per affected employee.
These steps aim to soften the blow from the coronavirus crisis. Stay informed, stay safe, and know your rights if you’re affected.
