The £20 a week uplift to Universal Credit has been a lifeline for many Manchester residents during the coronavirus pandemic. Here at Citizens Advice Manchester, we know it’s a vital issue for many of the people who come to us for help. That’s why we’re campaigning for this temporary uplift to be made permanent.

We’re calling on Manchester MPs to consider making representations to the Prime Minister to highlight the importance of the increase for families in our area, as well as communities across the country.

Our team has helped 12,141 people with Universal Credit queries during the pandemic, so we understand how the temporary increase has supported Manchester residents. It’s already a lifeline to 86,018 people across Manchester. Additionally, removing the uplift would mean a £1,000 pay cut for low paid workers, with around 36% of local claimants already in employment. 

Making the increase to Universal Credit permanent is a quick and targeted way to direct support at local communities as we recover from the pandemic. In Manchester alone, the increase represents £75,430,000 in potential spending. Our research shows it also helps address regional disparities. The rate of people claiming Universal Credit is higher in areas prioritised for ‘levelling up’ investment. 

Later in the summer, we’ll be sharing personalised briefings with Manchester MPs, to highlight more about the importance of the increase in our city. We know the uplift isn’t the only issue facing Manchester residents receiving Universal Credit, and we’re concerned about the effect of these issues as our area recovers from Covid. Alongside working to keep the lifeline, we’ll be campaigning for improvements to Universal Credit, to ensure that the rules set out by DWP are fit for real life. 

If you need further help or advice with benefits, you can contact our Adviceline free on 0808 278 7800 or explore our website to find out ways to get advice online.