Source · Select Committees · Women and Equalities Committee
Recommendation 13
13
Paragraph: 103
There are known barriers to applying to Universal Credit.
Recommendation
There are known barriers to applying to Universal Credit. These have been thrown into sharp focus by the pandemic. Given that the country has now exited two national lockdowns and continues to be subject to covid-19 restrictions, it is critical that the Government ensures that those who need Universal Credit can access it. The Government should immediately address issues with digital connectivity particularly given the continuing uncertainty over the level of covid-19 restrictions, which means a significant minority could become further isolated from vital support. The Government should develop a Universal Credit mobile application so that people can access the service on their phones.
Paragraph Reference:
103
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
The Universal Credit On-line service has been developed to work equally well on a laptop or handheld device. All user testing has been conducted with users who access the service through all devices. The service does work effectively from a smartphone. Any development of a separate application would have an impact on what the government could deliver, as both versions of the service would need to be iterated and adapted separately but in tandem. In addition, we accept there will be occasions when people are unable to make or maintain their claim online, so as part of wider support and to prevent potentially unnecessary travel to a Jobcentre during the pandemic, telephone applications and support is available via our Freephone Universal Credit Helpline.