Overview
- Work Coaches in Pathfinder sites will assess circumstances and encourage claimants to take “all reasonable steps” to prepare for work instead of a blanket hourly target.
- Ministers say results will shape a redesigned Jobs and Careers Service that moves away from an “any job” approach, with detailed plans promised in spring 2026.
- The DWP is reviewing enforcement, exploring non-financial alternatives to benefit cuts and warning of possible unintended consequences of compulsory meetings.
- Recent figures show about 5.5% of sanction-eligible Universal Credit claimants face penalties, over 90% for missed Jobcentre appointments.
- The cross-party Work and Pensions Committee welcomed the shift to personalised, humane support, as Conservatives accused the government of enabling a “mass opt-out” that would raise costs.