Welfare and benefits forms the largest area of advice we deliver at Citizens Advice. This gives us some of the clearest insights into the way in which the system works and the challenges it poses.
Our research is focused on using our data and expertise to make the case for a system which is more responsive to the needs and circumstances of its users. This includes helping policymakers understand the impact of changes, working for better service design and highlighting the importance of robust advice and support.
Find out about all our welfare policy work.
17 Rhagfyr 2020
This briefing sets out our latest evidence and data on the impact of the No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF) visa condition during the pandemic, focusing particularly on rent arrears and homelessness issues.
13 Hydref 2020
In this report we show the impact of coronavirus on the finances of people we help with debt. We outline measures that the Government should take to avoid a national household debt crisis and support the UK’s longer-term economic recovery.
10 Gorffennaf 2020
Coronavirus has had a sudden and unprecedented impact on people’s jobs and incomes. Recent changes in the benefits system have eased some problems, but more needs to be done to make sure the right support is in place for all groups.
1 Mai 2020
Proposals for a transitional package of protections when the lockdown eases.
10 Ebrill 2020
The government has announced unprecedented interventions to ensure that most households in this country will be able to maintain a level of income during this crisis. However, in a fast changing situation, the data we are getting from our advisers suggests that further gaps in the existing package of support will need addressing.
18 Mawrth 2020
As the country turns its resources to responding to the Covid-19 pandemic it is crucial that households are protected from severe financial hardship. People need to receive a Crisis Minimum Income of at least £180 a week to have enough money to cover the bare essentials - so they can protect their own health and the health of others. We’ve set out how we have arrived at this number but also the key mechanisms and actions needed to deliver it. We have previously published a range of other measures giving wider protections to renters, support for those in debt and help to pay essential bills, which support this proposal.
16 Mawrth 2020
We’ve written a paper detailing proposals that we believe the Government should be considering to temporarily improve social protection capacity and regulation to strengthen our safety net and help smooth disruption to the economy that could follow from this crisis.
9 Chwefror 2020
In this briefing we detail what different options for uprating benefits would mean for the tens of thousands of benefit claimants we help who are struggling with debt.
1 Medi 2019
Our benefits system exists to provide a financial safety net for people. Yet many people on benefits are struggling to make ends meet and pay for essentials.
6 Chwefror 2019
Our research finds changes made by the government have made a difference for people waiting for their first Universal Credit payment - but lots of people are still struggling.
18 Rhagfyr 2018
This briefing sets out our key concerns with the proposed regulations governing managed migration.
25 Hydref 2018
What Universal Credit means for single people who are disabled or have health conditions
18 Hydref 2018
Our recommendations to help ensure managed migration onto Universal Credit works well for the 2.8 million people affected.
22 Gorffennaf 2018
While Universal Credit is working for the majority, there is a significant minority of people having problems - many of whom are in vulnerable situations and most in need of support.
20 Ebrill 2018
Two short reports on the challenges facing working people moving onto Universal Credit and the ways these could be addressed
11 Medi 2017
Our evidence shows that the roll out of universal credit has an adverse impact on debt problems. DWP should pause roll out to fix the problems we have identified. Our analysis shows Universal Credit is pushing people further into debt. The Government needs to pause Universal Credit roll-out and fix the problems now.
6 Gorffennaf 2017
A report on the implementation of Universal Credit and the issues Citizens Advice is seeing so far.
11 Awst 2016
A collection of short reports highlighting the importance of income security
19 Gorffennaf 2016
Citizens Advice reports on the impact of welfare reform on working people
13 Gorffennaf 2016
Exploring the impact of welfare reform and the progress that utilities companies and other creditors have made to debt prevention and collection practices.
