A growing concern is emerging as four million individuals currently receive Universal Credit without the obligation to seek employment—an increase of one million compared to last year. This figure represents half of the eight million people claiming Universal Credit nationwide.
Reform UK’s Lee Anderson criticized the situation, stating, “Work should always pay more than being on the dole. Benefits must act as a safety net, not a career choice.” Helen Whately, Conservative Party Shadow Welfare Secretary, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that many recipients “could and should be contributing to our economy.”
Since Sir Keir Starmer became Prime Minister, the number of benefit claimants exempt from job-seeking has risen by approximately 1.3 million. The trend intensified from 3.9 million in September to 4 million currently, a significant rise from 2.7 million in July 2024.
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A Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) spokesperson explained that Universal Credit claims have increased partly due to the phased transition from legacy benefits. The spokesperson affirmed the government’s commitment to helping more people find employment.
Meanwhile, Tory Business Secretary Andrew Griffiths criticized the government’s handling of the issue, suggesting they “should hang their heads in shame.” Liz McKeown, Director of Economic Statistics at the Office for National Statistics, highlighted a weakening labor market, noting declines in payroll numbers over the past year and a post-pandemic high in unemployment rates for the latest quarter.
Welfare Secretary Pat McFadden pointed to positive employment moves, stating, “Over 329,000 more people have moved into work this year already, but today’s figures are exactly why we’re stepping up our plan to Get Britain Working.”