Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what process is in place to identify people who are unable to make applications online for universal credit as a result of a disability.

DWP recognises that some people will need help with on-line claims and activity. When claimants make the Department aware of their disability, Universal Credit will offer support in jobcentres to make and manage their claims on-line, and also to acquire or improve core digital skills. DWP has also rolled out the Universal Support initiative alongside the national roll out of Universal Credit, as part of which Local Authorities deliver both digital and budgeting support.

Where claimants have no capability to make or manage their claim on-line, telephone and face to face support is available. We are continually reviewing and developing the current vulnerable claimant customer journey, including how vulnerable people are identified and how they are supported both internally and via referral to local services delivered in partnership activity.