Over 1.2 Million Universal Credit Claimants Targeted for Pay Rise Boost
DWP Launches Big Push to Help Low Earners Climb the Career Ladder
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is stepping up efforts to help more than 1.2 million Universal Credit recipients bag promotions and better wages. The initiative provides tailored support to low-income workers wanting to boost their earnings and career prospects.
Jobcentres Back Claimants with Specialist In Work Progression Support
- Local Jobcentres offer specialist guidance and skills signposting to help claimants secure promotions and higher pay.
- A network of 37 Progression Leads across England, Scotland, and Wales links up employers, local skills providers, and authorities to create customised growth opportunities.
The support covers everything from CV help to advice on tackling progression barriers like childcare and travel costs. Latest changes allow childcare expenses to be paid upfront, easing the financial pressure on working parents. Eligible claimants can also tap into help for travel costs through the Flexible Support Fund.
Government Plans to Expand Mandatory Support from September
From this September, nearly 460,000 working claimants in the so-called Light Touch group will be required to engage with the In Work Progression programme, ensuring they get personalised help to climb the career ladder.
Minister for Employment Guy Opperman MP: “In Work Progression is one of this Government’s core priorities. It’s about supporting people in work to raise their incomes and ultimately become financially secure.”
“Rolling out this voluntary offer nationwide shows our commitment to help more people take control of their careers and finances, setting them firmly on a pathway to a brighter and more prosperous future.”
Success Stories Inspire Confidence
Local employers are already seeing the benefits. In Scotland, a holiday park combined part-time cleaning and waiting staff shifts to create full-time jobs. Similarly, Whitbread in Dumfries merged part-time hospitality roles to increase workers’ hours and pay.
With the support of Progression Leads working closely with businesses and community bodies, the Government aims to smash local barriers like transport and childcare shortages holding back career growth.
