Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, pursuant to the Answer of 8 January 2018 to Question 121091, what steps her Department is taking to ensure that her Department's staff are aware of support available locally and that conversations during the initial stages of a universal credit claim include that reference to that support; and if she will make a statement.

Accessing digital, budgeting and other support is discussed with customers at the initial claim stage and throughout the customer journey where a need/barrier is identified. Budgeting advice specifically is offered to all Universal Credit claimants when they make a new claim. This service is provided by external organisations such as a local authority, Citizens Advice Bureau or Money Advice Service.

DWP staff are made aware of the specialist help available within their area, including information on services and support and referral arrangements, via the District Provision Tool. This digital tool lists available provision and support, (in a district and nationally) delivered by Jobcentre Plus, Skills Funding Agency, Skills Development Scotland, Careers Wales, other providers, local authorities, and independent and volunteer organisations.