Source · Select Committees · Welsh Affairs Committee
Recommendation 2
2
Paragraph: 57
The pandemic demonstrated how resilient the UK social security system can be in the face...
Conclusion
The pandemic demonstrated how resilient the UK social security system can be in the face of significant challenges. Despite the huge surge in demand, Universal Credit continued to function and benefits were paid out to a markedly increased pool of claimants. That Universal Credit was able to withstand these pressures was a result not only of digitisation, but also the immense efforts of DWP staff, and also to the leadership of the DWP. We want to pay tribute to their commitment and hard work in facing such unprecedented challenges.
Paragraph Reference:
57
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
Statutory Sick Pay should not be looked at in isolation, more than half of employees (60%) receive more than the statutory minimum from their employer. In the response to ‘Health is Everyone’s Business’ consultation published in 2021, the UK Government stated the pandemic was not the right time to introduce changes to the rate of Statutory Sick Pay, or its eligibility criteria, as this would have placed an immediate and direct cost on employers at a time where many were struggling. As we learn to live with Covid-19, the UK Government is continuing to take a broader look at the role of Statutory Sick Pay and is keeping the system under review. Any further changes will be announced to Parliament. The UK Government will not provide a further update to the Committee.