Source · Select Committees · Work and Pensions Committee
Recommendation 25
25
Inconsistent application of DWP policies like sanctions exacerbates claimant vulnerabilities and hardship.
Conclusion
Incorrectly applied, policies intended to drive claimant behaviour and deliver value for money, such as sanctions and deductions, can create and exacerbate vulnerabilities. While DWP has checks in place that are supposed to ensure this doesn’t happen, the application of these checks is inconsistent. This can leave claimants facing substantial hardship, putting them at risk of harm. (Conclusion, Paragraph 110)
Government Response
A response document is linked to this report, dated 22 July 2025. Response attribution to this conclusion has not been verified. Read the response document ↗