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DWP to Migrate 800,000 to Universal Credit by 2026

1/14/2026

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DWP Benefit Overhaul

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will complete a managed migration of around 800,000 claimants from Employment and Support Allowance to Universal Credit by 31 March 2026, ending benefits for 650,000 ESA claimants.
From April 2026, the DWP will raise benefits by 3.8%, including Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Attendance Allowance.
Two-child limit on Universal Credit will be abolished, allowing families to receive payments for third and subsequent children.

Left

DWP Launches Support Fund

The UK Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will launch the Crisis and Resilience Fund in April to provide cash payments, rent support, and food vouchers.
The government will provide £1 billion annually for at least three years to help councils administer the fund.
The fund offers two payments: a crisis payment for financial shocks and a housing payment for rent, to help reduce food insecurity.

History

Historical Context

Universal Credit was introduced in 2013 by the UK government to consolidate six welfare benefits into a single payment, impacting over 7 million households. Initially announced in 2010, its rollout faced significant delays and IT issues, with full implementation now expected by 2024. The program aims to address financial insecurity, evidenced by a £1 billion annual funding for the Crisis and Resilience Fund.

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DWP Benefit Overhaul

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will complete a managed migration of around 800,000 claimants from Employment and Support Allowance to Universal Credit by 31 March 2026, ending benefits for 650,000 ESA claimants.
From April 2026, the DWP will raise benefits by 3.8%, including Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Attendance Allowance.
Two-child limit on Universal Credit will be abolished, allowing families to receive payments for third and subsequent children.

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