DfC & DWP Research for Managed Migration to UC

The Department for Communities (DfC) has published research which explores the reasons some Tax Credit claimants have failed to move to Universal Credit through the managed migration process. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) have also published research which provides early insight into rates of claim, and reasons for non-claim, for those going through the Universal Credit managed migration process. It should be noted that the DWP research relates to GB and not NI.

Thus far the research shows a lower claim rate for managed migrants in receipt of Tax Credits only. There is qualitative research (both DWP & DfC) into why the Tax Credit Cohort are less likely to submit a claim. The DWP research suggests that there was a concerningly high number of respondents to the survey that were unaware they might have been entitled to receive transitional protection had they made a claim to Universal Credit (69%). The DfC research also noted that both claimants and stakeholder groups raised additional concerns, particularly claimant knowledge and understanding of Transitional Protection, stigma surrounding UC, and IT literacy. It was also concerning that a significant percentage of DWP survey respondents indicated they were unaware that you can claim 85% of childcare costs back through UC.

It is notable that both surveys indicated that majority of claimants were seeking information on Universal Credit from sources which risked misinformation and confusion

“…predominantly used the GOV.UK website (37%), online benefit calculators (28%), and the Move to Universal Credit helpline (10%) to make a decision about claiming UC. Interview participants described how these resources could lead to confusion, perceptions of ineligibility and/or reinforce existing perceptions about UC.” (DWP Research)

“Many participants were unaware of the formal support that would be available if they chose to make a claim and instead conducted their own research. Only one participant we spoke to made contact with a formal Advice Centre. Informal information sources were more common… Multiple participants mentioned that friends, family, and/ or Facebook groups significantly influenced their decision not to migrate. These informal networks allowed them to ask questions and gain insights from those who may have already gone through the process. However, it became apparent that there is a risk of misinformation when relying on informal networks.” (DfC Research)

To avoid confusion and perceptions of ineligibility, Law Centre NI highlights the importance of seeking expert free advice from the Independent Advice Sector in Northern Ireland before going through the managed migration process.

You can access the Research at the links below:

1. DfC Move to Universal Credit – Tax Credit and Non-Movers Research
2. Move to Universal Credit – Insight on Income Support and Housing Benefit and initial ESA cohort activity – ad hoc report
3. Move to Universal Credit Late Claimers (formerly Tax Credit customers) Qualitative Research – ad hoc report
4. Move to Universal Credit for Tax Credit Couples Qualitative Research – ad hoc report
5. Move to Universal Credit non-claimants (formerly tax credits customers) research – Full research report published in the main research series.

Law Centre NI continues to support individuals; stakeholders and the Independent Advice Sector through our specialist Social Security Advice Line which you can reach by calling: 02890244401