The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) faces growing pressure to end what many call a “humiliating” identity verification process for Universal Credit claimants. A recently launched petition on the Parliamentary website calls on the Labour Party government to overhaul the rules surrounding benefit identity checks.
The petition highlights concerns over demanding claimants to submit passport selfies, doorstep photos, and even images of their homes as proof of identity. It argues that these practices not only humiliate vulnerable individuals but also raise serious safeguarding, security, and discrimination issues. The petition states, “Claimants are not criminals. They are vulnerable people relying on support to survive.”
Currently, Universal Credit claimants must verify their identity to ensure claims are accurate and to help reduce fraud. Verification can be done online through facial recognition, face-to-face appointments, documentary evidence, or interviews covering biographical details. Eligible documents for online verification include a valid UK passport, driving licence, recent Self Assessment tax returns, or credit references such as credit card or phone contract information.
READ MORE: Calls Grow to Update Free Bus Pass Rules for Carers Under the 2000 Transport Act
READ MORE: Lewis Koumas Reflects on Mixed Loan Experiences Before Achieving Promotion with Hull City
The petition urges the government to adopt more proportionate and dignified alternatives to these invasive identity checks. If the petition reaches 10,000 signatures, the government must respond. Gathering 100,000 signatures would prompt parliamentary debate. The petition will remain open until December 3, 2026, providing ample time for public engagement and scrutiny by the Department for Work and Pensions, overseen by cabinet figures including Pat McFadden, Torsten Bell, and Sir Stephen Timms.