From this Autumn, further ‘In work benefits’ are going to transfer to UC with Working Tax Credit customers transitioning from HMRC to DWP. With this move comes an expectation that these ‘new’ customers will join the rigour and regime associated with Universal Credit and work towards financial independence by improving their household income. In Mercia this could mean an additional 20K customers, which could mean a total of over 85K employees across the area that will be encouraged to work with their Job Centre and become more financially independent and secure increased earnings.
The impact on Employers could be employees asking for a pay rise, increased working hours, access to training and skills progression, or ultimately, employees may choose to look for additional or better paid work elsewhere.
The DWP ‘In Work Progression’ offer is aimed to support Employers in retaining their workforce and for employees to progress in the workplace by potentially reviewing their transferable skills or to re-skill to offer them better employment opportunities.
The Government in recognition of this impact are looking to support employers through these changes with local ‘Progression Lead’ roles now in place that can liaise and advocate with employees and employers at this time.
My name is Mark Palmer, and I am the DWP Progression lead for Mercia.
The following information videos take less than 2mins to watch and I’m sure you will find them enlightening.
Universal Credit and Employers – More flexibility for employers and claimants Universal Credit and Employers – More flexibility for employers and claimants - YouTube .
Universal Credit and Employers – Making work better for all Universal Credit and Employers – Making work better for all - YouTube
If you would like to understand the changes and there potential affects in more detail and how DWP and the Job Centre Offer can support your business then please contact me via [email protected] or by LinkedIn just search under ‘Mark Palmer, Mercia District In Work Progression Lead’.
