Source · Select Committees · Education Committee
Recommendation 77
77
Deferred
Exempt care leavers from proposed Universal Credit reductions and prioritise Youth Guarantee access.
Conclusion
The Department for Work and Pensions must exempt care leavers from its proposed plans to reduce Universal Credit support for those aged under 22, if these reforms go ahead, and ensure that care leavers are prioritised for access to support through the Youth Guarantee. (Recommendation, Paragraph 196)
Government Response Summary
The government is consulting on proposals in the Pathways to Work White Paper, including raising the age for the Universal Credit Health Element to 22. It states no decisions have been made yet and feedback will be considered before implementing any changes, therefore deferring a decision on exempting care leavers.
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
Disengagement from employment and education during early adulthood can have long-term negative effects on young people’s career prospects, health, and wellbeing. Currently, those classified as unable to work often receive no support, increasing the risk of long-term economic inactivity before their careers even begin. This lack of engagement at a critical stage in life can hinder their ability to connect with the labour market and build a stable future. To address this, the Government is consulting on proposals in the Pathways to Work White Paper, including raising the age at which young people can access the Universal Credit Health Element to 22. This change aims to remove any disincentive to work or study during this period. The savings would be reinvested into the Youth Guarantee, enhancing opportunities for learning, training, and employment. However, no decisions have been made yet, and the Government will consider consultation feedback before implementing any changes.