The UK government's managed migration programme, aimed at transitioning claimants from legacy benefits to Universal Credit, has reached a milestone. According to official statistics, over 700,000 people have been sent managed migration notices inviting them to claim Universal Credit between July 2022 and March 2024.
The data, which is still under development, highlights a significant increase in the number of people migrated to Universal Credit during this period. This is in line with the government's goal of ending the legacy benefits system by March 2026.
Managed migration notices are part of a phased programme, which began in July 2022. The programme involves sending claimants letters inviting them to claim Universal Credit, after which they have a set timeframe to do so. Failure to respond or claim Universal Credit may result in a loss of benefits.
The UK government has stated that the managed migration programme is designed to ensure a smooth transition to Universal Credit, and to prevent any disruption to claimants' benefits. The programme's completion will mark the end of the legacy benefits system and the full rollout of Universal Credit.
The implications of this development are significant, particularly for those who have yet to be invited to claim Universal Credit. Claimants who fail to respond to managed migration notices may face financial difficulties, and it is essential that they seek advice and assistance from relevant authorities.