Livingston Constituency MP Gregor Poynton has written to the UK Government seeking reassurances about the support available to vulnerable people being moved from legacy benefits onto Universal Credit.
Mr Poynton acted following reports from local welfare advisers and a number of casework enquiries, which indicated that some constituents who had been receiving Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) in the Support Group were not being automatically placed into the equivalent ‘Limited Capability for Work-Related Activity’ (LCWRA) group under Universal Credit. This has, in some cases, resulted in a loss of income and added stress for those already living with serious health conditions or disabilities.
Commenting, Mr Poynton said: “I know that the Department for Work and Pensions is working hard to manage a large and complex transition. But it’s vital that no one is left behind in that process—especially the most vulnerable in society, who may not understand why their support appears to be changing.
“I’ve written to the Secretary of State, Liz Kendall MP, to ask what safeguards are in place to protect claimants during this migration and to ensure the system is working as intended. I’m also keen to make sure there’s clear support available for anyone who needs help to challenge or understand a decision.”
Mr Poynton added: “This issue has been raised with me by multiple constituents who have contacted my office looking for help. It’s clear that there are some real concerns about how the system is operating in practice, and that’s why I’m raising it directly with the UK Government.”
The MP has also offered to meet with ministers, advisers, and local support agencies to ensure the transition to Universal Credit works fairly for everyone across the Livingston constituency.
Constituents with concerns about their own migration to UC are encouraged to contact Gregor Poynton MP’s office for assistance.