The final phase of the move from income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) to Universal Credit (UC) is now under way. All remaining claimants still receiving old-style ESA are being contacted by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and invited to claim UC by September 2025. Here’s a summary of the key changes and what to watch out for: Migration Timeline The government has brought the deadline forward from December to September 2025 due to the pace of progress. As of March, 200,000 ESA claimants have already been moved across to UC. Around 83,000 migration notices are now being issued each month. Enhanced Support for Vulnerable Claimants If someone doesn’t claim UC by week 12 of receiving their migration notice, the DWP will start what’s called the ‘Enhanced Support Journey’. This includes: Text messages and phone calls to the claimant A possible referral to Citizens Advice or a complex case coach Home visits where needed An automatic four-week extension to the deadline if a home visit is arranged This process is in place to make sure vulnerable or hard-to-reach claimants don’t miss out on support. Special Situations Claimants in hospital, care homes, or supported accommodation can receive home visits to help them make a claim. If someone already has an appointee, that role must be transferred to UC. Appointees will receive the migration notice directly and can complete the UC claim on the claimant’s behalf. Transitional Protections To honour the commitment that no one should be worse off when moving to UC, the DWP offers transitional elements for eligible claimants. This means: If someone’s total legacy benefits are higher than their initial UC entitlement, a transitional amount is added This amount is gradually reduced over time as UC increases (except for the childcare element) Severe Disability Premium (SDP) Claimants who previously received the SDP may qualify for a separate transitional SDP element, depending on their circumstances. There are three fixed rates depending on the individual or household situation, with additional amounts available in some cases, such as for enhanced disability or disabled children. What If the Deadline Is Missed? If a claim is made within one month (minus one day) after the deadline, it may still count as a ‘qualifying claim’. In that case, the UC award should be backdated to the original deadline date. If transitional elements are missing, advisers should request a mandatory reconsideration and appeal if necessary. Claimants can also request deadline extensions or ask for the migration notice to be cancelled. This is at the discretion of the DWP and may be considered in cases of illness, hospitalisation, or other serious circumstances. Changes to Permitted Work Under ESA, permitted work could be done within strict income and hour limits without affecting entitlement. UC does not have an equivalent rule. Instead, earnings are subject to a work allowance and taper rate. The DWP has confirmed that claimants migrating to UC will not be penalised for permitted work carried out under ESA. Need Advice? CHAP’s advisers are here to help people navigate the migration process. We can: Explain deadlines and what they mean Support claimants with their UC application Help challenge decisions and secure transitional protection Offer ongoing advice as circumstances change If you're unsure how these changes affect you - or someone you know - please get in touch. Freephone 030 0002 0002 or use the online chat feature here on our website.

We’re constantly exposed to messages telling us to keep up - with fashion, tech gadgets, trends, and lifestyles that look perfect on social media. It’s no wonder so many people, especially parents, feel the pressure to spend beyond their means just so their kids don’t feel left out at school. It’s so easy to fall into the trap. Store cards with 'buy now, pay later' deals, flashy introductory offers, and limited-time discounts are designed to create a sense of urgency - like if you don’t act now, you’re missing out. But what’s really being missed is usually the small print… high APR rates often leading to debt stress, and long-term financial strain. This cycle of consumerism isn’t by accident - it’s carefully crafted to keep us buying, borrowing and feeling like we’re never quite enough unless we have the next best thing. But here’s the truth: it’s OK to opt out . You don’t have to compete. You don’t need to upgrade. If something still fits, still works and still does the job - just keep using it. You'll be helping yourself and the planet. Living within your means isn’t something to be ashamed of. It’s brave. It’s wise. It's not a downgrade; it’s freedom - and it’s more comfortable in the long run. Choose peace over pressure. Your wellbeing matters more than what’s currently 'on trend'. We can help If you're facing debt worries and don't know where to turn, get in touch with CHAP. Our services are free and we can help you take the first steps towards a more stable financial future. Make an appointment by calling Freephone 030 0002 0002 or use the chat feature here on our website.