Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, if he will make it his policy to ensure that universal credit claimants are routinely asked if they require the alternative paying arrangement in order to protect vulnerable women and children from experiencing financial abuse.

Work coaches already assess claimants’ situations on a case by case basis. At the initial interview, they discuss Personal Budgeting Support and asses the claimaint’s need for alternative payment arrangements (APA). The work coach maintains an on-going conversation with the claimant at subsequent interviews, to ensure they are happy with the arrangements.

We have the facility to split payments to members of the household where necessary.

Work coaches can signpost vulnerable claimants to further help and support where necessary.