Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions on proposals to introduce non-repayable grants on qualification for universal credit.

Universal Credit offers tailored financial support that reflects claimants’ personal circumstances. No one has to wait for a first Universal Credit payment, with new claimants able to request additional support through an advance if they need it. Advances can be repaid over a year, allowing new claimants to receive 13 payments during that period instead of 12. Budgeting support is also available for anyone who needs extra help managing their finances.