Universal Credit Faces Challenges with Rising Long-Term Sickness

As the number of long-term sick claimants reaches 2.3 million, experts call for significant reforms to the Universal Credit system.

The Resolution Foundation reports that the Universal Credit system is ill-equipped to handle the increasing number of long-term sick, which has nearly doubled since its introduction in 2013.
Recent government reforms aim to encourage those with health issues to seek work, but critics argue these measures are insufficient.
A study reveals that disabled individuals are significantly poorer under Universal Credit, with a single person with a disability potentially losing £2,800 annually.
By 2029, Universal Credit is expected to cover seven million families, necessitating adaptations to meet the needs of a changing population.
Experts emphasize the need for a holistic approach, involving the NHS, education, and labor policies, to address the root causes of long-term sickness.