Universal Credit (UC) has been rolled-out very slowly since 2015. But that all changed when coronavirus struck. Since mid-March over two million new claims have been made, a surge far in excess of anything experienced during the financial crisis. UC is the UK’s primary safety-net benefit, but this is the first time it has been tested in the frontline of a living standards crisis. How is Universal Credit coping with the current crisis? How are families coping with Universal Credit? And, with Britain set to face to emerge from the current crisis with the highest unemployment levels in over a quarter of a century, what role can and should UC play in helping to secure the recovery? The Resolution Foundation, in partnership with Standard Life Foundation, is hosting an interactive webinar to discuss these questions. Following the presentation of the key findings from major new research on Universal Credit’s role during the crisis, we will hear from the man in charge of UC – Neil Couling – to hear about the operation of Universal Credit during this crisis. Emma Revie from the Trussell Trust will also join us to discuss the impact of the crisis on low-income families. Viewers will be able to submit questions to the panel before and during the event. This event is supported by the Standard Life Foundation:
