Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what estimate he has made of the average level of debt held by a household on universal credit.

In order to ensure that claimants are supported during the wait for the first payment of Universal Credit DWP has in place a system of Advances which means claimants can receive financial support within 5 days of making their claim.

Take up has increased significantly and the latest data shows that around half of new claimants are now receiving this support. Furthermore, we have taken steps to increase awareness further by amending guidance to ensure that claimants are aware at the start of their claim of the maximum amount they could receive as an advance and the maximum repayment period and further support is available such as help with budgeting.

Our research shows that the nature of rent arrears is that they are temporary, reducing over time and that the majority of claimants are able to adapt to the changes and manage their monthly payments and successfully. We continue to monitor and evaluate the delivery of Universal Credit including payment of advances, rent arrears and other impacts as Universal Credit is rolled out to new areas of the country.