Tag: Department for Work and Pensions

The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 25 November 2025.

Unpaid carers will have their Carer’s Allowance earnings related overpayments reviewed and potentially cancelled or repaid, following an independent review that found unclear guidance left people facing unexpected debts.

• Carers forced to repay debts because of unclear guidance – in place between 2015 and summer 2025 – are set to have their cases reviewed.
• DWP will reassess all related overpayment cases and reduce debts or refund money to those affected.
• It comes in wake of independent Sayce review, as Government commits to fixing inherited system failures as part of Plan for Change.

Unpaid carers will have their Carer’s Allowance earnings related overpayments reviewed and potentially cancelled or repaid, following an independent review that found unclear guidance left people facing unexpected debts.

The independent Sayce Review, launched in October last year, found unclear guidance on averaging fluctuating earnings prevented carers from understanding what changes to their pay needed reporting to the Department for Work and Pensions.

This meant tens of thousands of people juggling 35 hours of care with paid work built up debts without realising they had breached the weekly earnings limit.

The DWP has accepted that unpaid carers were let down by confusing rules – in place between 2015 and summer 2025 – and this government is now moving to fix these inherited problems.

Where it is found that overpayments were lower than originally calculated, carers will have their debts reduced or cancelled entirely, with the Government refunding any money already repaid.

Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden, said:

Carers are vital to our communities, and when the system lets them down, we have a duty to put it right.

The Sayce Review has shown us clearly that the guidance on earnings averaging was confusing. We inherited this mess from the previous government, but we’ve listened to carers, commissioned an independent review, and are now making good for those affected.

Rebuilding trust isn’t about warm words – it’s about action, accountability, and making sure our support works for the people who need it most.

Most people will have their cases reassessed without needing to contact DWP. Carers who have already repaid their debts will still be able to have their cases reassessed and details on the best way to do this will be set out in due course.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

This will be welcome news for thousands of carers failed by the system under the previous government.

We will right these wrongs, carers give so much to their families and to their local communities, and they deserve our support.

The Sayce Review made 40 recommendations, the vast majority of which have been accepted.

DWP has already made immediate improvements in the wake of this. This includes:

• Updating internal guidance so staff properly record and explain wage averaging decisions.
• Hiring additional staff to process earnings notifications more quickly to prevent large debts building up over time.
• Ensuring letters to unpaid carers clearly explain what changes need reporting Appointing a senior service owner to drive delivery of the Review’s recommendations.

Independent reviewer Liz Sayce said:

My review found that overpayment debt has had major impacts on carers’ health, finances and family well-being, and been a disincentive to work. I’m glad Government now plans to review cases and cancel or reduce debts affected by flawed guidance.

This wasn’t wilful rule-breaking – it simply wasn’t clear what earnings fluctuations carers should report.

I’m pleased DWP has tackled the backlog of earnings data, so people shouldn’t suddenly face large debts going back years.

I hope those affected feel they have been heard.

Longer-term reforms are also underway to modernise Carer’s Allowance to build fair public services that treat people with respect, as part of the Plan for Change.

The DWP is also considering how regulations might better reflect modern working practices, developing automation that links directly to HMRC data, and exploring potential solutions to reduce the impact of the current Carer’s Allowance earnings cliff edge.

It follows wider work to tackle fraud and error in the benefits system, with the Fraud, Error and Recovery Bill bringing forward the biggest fraud crackdown in a generation, that will save £9.6 billion by 2030.

Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK, said:

It’s a really important day for carers today and in Carers UK’s 60 year history.

Carers UK is really pleased that this issue we’ve raised for nearly 8 years is finally being addressed, with system failures acknowledged.

We welcome the fact that Government has committed to writing off debt, where overpayments were lower than originally calculated, reducing or cancelled debts entirely, with refunding any money already repaid.

It’s absolutely right that the Government took the key decision to conduct this review, given how challenging and distressing Carer’s Allowance overpayments have been.

Government and Liz Sayce OBE have clearly listened to carers and the evidence that Carers UK has provided.

Carers are the backbone of our society with their care worth a staggering £184 billion a year. They need support and systems that work, not extra challenges.

The Government recognises the vital role carers play supporting the people they care for, their communities and the country, and is committed to making their lives easier.

As part of this commitment, the Government has already raised the earnings threshold by £45 to £196 – the largest ever increase – benefiting over 60,000 carers by 2029/30.

Alongside this, it has launched a review of employment rights for unpaid carers, which will look at how the current package of rights is used and identify where any improvements might be needed to help carers balance their work with caring responsibilities.

Minister for Social Security and Disability Sir Stephen Timms said:

Carers deserve a benefit that reflects their vital contribution to society but, we inherited problems with Carer’s Allowance which we’re determined to fix.

Every day, they provide care and support that enables their loved ones to live with dignity – and we owe them a system that works properly.

I want to reassure carers that this issue doesn’t affect many cases. But where it’s gone wrong, we’ll put it right.

The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 14 November 2025.

Vulnerable claimants moved to Universal Credit with specialist help, as Government puts those who need it most at heart of delivery.

• Over 9 in 10 Employment and Support Allowance [ESA] customers invited to move now on modern benefit system as historic transformation nears completion 
• Minister for Social Security and Disability encourages people to make the move and use the successful support in place if needed

Almost a quarter of a million people on Employment Support Allowance (ESA) have successfully made the move to Universal Credit thanks to tailored support offered by the Department for Work and Pensions, shows new research published earlier this week [Tuesday 11 November]. 

Since July 2024, ESA customers have been moving at scale to the modern Universal Credit system, which offers more flexible support tailored to individual circumstances – whether people are seeking work or managing health conditions.  

New data published today reveals over 95% of ESA customers invited to move have successfully transitioned to Universal Credit – over three-quarters of a million (750,423) – with around 40% of those eligible taking up the offer of personalised support from the DWP.  

The specialist support – known as the Enhanced Support Journey – includes phone calls, home visits and support from dedicated teams to help customers who are more likely to be vulnerable access the benefits they’re entitled to.  

The transition follows the Government’s announcement of an above inflation boost to the standard allowance – an extra £725 in cash terms by 2029/30 for single people aged 25 and over. This is the biggest permanent real-terms boost to out-of-work support since the 1980s, according to the Institute for Fiscal Studies. 

Minister for Social Security and Disability, Sir Stephen Timms, said:  

Over 220,000 vulnerable people have now got the specialist support they need to move to Universal Credit – proof that we’re delivering a social security system that has respect at its heart.

We’re making sure no one gets left behind, offering real help throughout the process via our helpline, online guidance, and Citizens Advice support.

If you get that letter asking you to move to Universal Credit, don’t ignore it – it’s crucial to respond, so you can keep getting the support you’re entitled to.

Research shows that the tailored support allayed fears by helping vulnerable claimants understand their migration notice, while dispelling any misconceptions. Those who received a home visit were also helped with budgeting and understanding payment dates and amounts.  

Terry – who was supported to move to Universal Credit – said:  

The support made all the difference. At first, I found the process challenging – particularly transferring information about my rent.

But once I connected with Work Coach Des, everything changed. He guided me through each step and sorted everything out brilliantly.

It’s great having one dedicated person who really understands your situation. Des explained things clearly and made the whole process smooth.

The support is definitely there when you need it – you just need to find the right person to help, and then everything falls into place.

With legacy benefits Income Support and Income-based Jobseekers’ Allowance confirmed to close at the start of April 2026, the Government is achieving welfare modernisation as part of the Plan for Change to deliver public service renewal. 

To help all claimants through the transition, multiple support channels are available, including a dedicated helpline, face-to-face Jobcentre appointments, and free independent advice through Citizens Advice’s Help to Claim service.

The Enhanced Support Journey makes up a key part of the Government’s ongoing commitment to put disabled people at the heart of policy design and delivery, with Zara Todd leading an Independent Disability Advisory Panel to guide future decisions on health and disability issues.

The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 16 October 2025.

Across the country, thousands more people will be helped back towards employment through support ranging from peer-to-peer support groups to mental health support thanks to an £80 million funding package announced today (Thursday).

• Transformative inactivity trailblazer scheme extended as Government targets economic inactivity hotspots through joined up localised support. 
• Confidence building, social support groups and mental health support are just some of the ways local areas will be able to help local people currently out of work.   
• Major funding boost forms part of wider government effort to unlock opportunity, improve living standards and drive growth as part of the Plan for Change.

The extra money for nine inactivity trailblazers across England and Wales will be targeted at areas of the country with the highest levels of economic inactivity, enabling local leaders to give those furthest from employment the tools to get into work. 

Unlike traditional employment support, inactivity trailblazers empower local areas to design tailored solutions that tackle the root causes of economic inactivity – such as poor mental health, low skills, and barriers like social isolation – rather than just treating the symptoms. 

New support that areas can offer will include work readiness skills, employer engagement to change hiring practices and support Local Growth Plans, mental health support, confidence-building social groups and skills training to move thousands more people closer to the labour market.  

These groundbreaking schemes are helping to break the vicious cycle between poor mental health and unemployment by trialling initiatives that combine job support with health and skills support.  

Those who benefit from the trailblazer support face complex, often deeply personal barriers to work, and the scheme is part of the Government’s wider plan to deliver national renewal focused on opportunity and respect, ensuring everyone is seen and valued. 

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Pat McFadden said: 

For too long too many people have been locked out of the job market, which fails them and fails our economy.

That is why we are doing things differently – putting local leaders in the driving seat so the right support goes to their community. 

By further investing in our trailblazers we’re helping people who were previously underserved or overlooked to build the confidence and skills they need to thrive.

By taking a holistic approach, the programme is already delivering results through early intervention, flexible training and working directly with employers to create supportive environments, rather than treating health and employment as separate issues. 

Aaron is a young autistic individual who experienced crippling social isolation and anxiety due to past bullying. With support from the trailblazer, Aaron has been able to build confidence and develop job-readiness skills including CV preparation and employer engagement for employment opportunities. The trailblazer has also allowed him to co-create a safe, interest-based social group since existing local options didn’t meet his specific needs. 

Following early successes, the government has chosen to extend this support, which has seen the introduction of innovative pilots such as community link worker projects, which connect local residents to support services, as well as developing a new digital self-referral platform to signpost people to access local health and employment support services. 

The funding builds on recently announced investment in youth employment support, including a £25 million boost for Youth Hubs and a £45 million extension to the Youth Guarantee trailblazer scheme. 

The funding comes after this week’s ONS figures showed 9.1 million people remain economically inactive across the UK. To mark the announcement, the Work and Pensions Secretary will visit Wales to launch the expanded Trailblazer programme in Neath Port Talbot, where he will see firsthand how targeted, community-led support is breaking down barriers that have trapped some people for years. 

This builds on the early successes of the Trailblazers in Denbighshire and Blaenau Gwent which have seen the creation of wellbeing and resilience support alongside the provision of essential skills including self-confidence building, motivation, problem solving and teamwork. 

This investment is central to the Government’s Plan for Change mission to break down barriers to opportunity and kickstart economic growth by getting Britain working again.  

This approach recognises that behind every unemployment or inactive statistic is a real person with real potential – and that with the right support, everyone deserves the chance to build a better future through meaningful work. 

Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said: 

The UK Government is working with the Welsh Government and others to help people into employment. We know that work benefits people, giving them financial independence and improving their wellbeing.

It is fantastic news that our Trailblazer scheme is being extended and backed with significant funding so it unlocks many more opportunities for people across Wales, setting them up for success.

Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnerships for Wales, Jack Sargeant said:   

This vital funding boost will make a real difference to communities in Wales, where we’re seeing innovative approaches tailored to local needs already making an impact.  

Welsh trailblazers are proving that when we combine employment support with health services and skills training, we can help people overcome the complex barriers they face. This investment reinforces our commitment to ensuring people in Wales receive the right support at the right time tailored to their circumstances.

South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, said:   

South Yorkshire has a proud industrial heritage that shaped our communities and powered progress far beyond our borders. But the legacy of industrial decline left behind deep-rooted challenges.  For too long, poor health, low skills, and limited opportunity have held too many people back. That’s not good enough, and we’re changing it.

I’m proud that we’ve secured another year of funding for the Economic Trailblazer. It’s a vital part of our nationally recognised Pathways to Work programme, which is helping thousands of people across South Yorkshire into good, secure jobs.

We’re building a South Yorkshire where everyone can stay near and go far, putting people and employers at the heart of everything we do – creating opportunity, transforming lives, and strengthening communities. Together, we’re making change happen.

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said:

This support really matters for people here in West Yorkshire, helping us to break down barriers to work and put more money in people’s pockets.

Through our Healthy Working Life programme, we’re helping those who’ve been out of work to rebuild their confidence, get the right support, and take that next step towards a good job.

Everyone deserves a fair chance to flourish, and this vital investment is giving people the skills and the support that they need to contribute to a stronger, brighter economy.

Additional Information

• The funding to extend the inactivity trailblazers for a second year will provide, a further £10m each to:  
• York and North Yorkshire 
• South Yorkshire  
• West Yorkshire  
• The North East 
• Greater Manchester  
• Wales  

as well as: 

A further £20m to the Greater London Authority to deliver three Trailblazers in London. 

• This additional funding will support the Government’s 80% employment rate ambition, through:    
• Integration of local services to bring together fragmented work, health and skills support environment   
• Identification and engagement of hard to reach economically inactive groups  
• Personalisation of support  
• Testing innovative new ways to support people   
• Increased collaboration and engagement with employers  
• Comprehensive evaluation to learn what works locally to support people to move people towards or into work 

The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 15 October 2025.

Pensioners are being warned to look out for Winter Fuel Payment text message scams following a surge in activity from opportunistic criminals ahead of next month’s payments.

• New data reveals a 153% rise in scam referrals in the final week of September, compared to the previous week.
• Recent spike comes ahead of Winter Fuel Payments hitting pensioners’ bank accounts next month.
• DWP are increasing efforts to raise public awareness and urge everyone not to engage with scam messages.

Pensioners are being warned to look out for Winter Fuel Payment text message scams following a surge in activity from opportunistic criminals ahead of next month’s payments.

New data from HMRC shows reports of scam texts more than doubled in the last week of September when compared to the previous week

These scams – which see fraudsters exploit pensioners by posing as government officials processing Winter Fuel Payment applications – had begun to drop off after a peak in June but are now increasing again ahead of payments being made next month.

This warning comes as the DWP ramps up its social media campaign in partnership with Action Fraud to raise awareness of these scams across Facebook and Twitter. This is alongside DWP’s continued work with trusted partners and charities such as Independent Age to ensure accurate and timely information is available.

Winter Fuel Payments are made automatically, and the government will never ask for bank details by text. Anyone who receives a text message inviting them to apply for a payment should not engage with it and instead forward it to 7726.

Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden said:

If you get a text message about Winter Fuel Payments, it’s a scam. They will be made automatically so you do not need to apply.

These despicable attempts by criminals to target people are on the rise. We are raising awareness to make it harder for fraudsters to succeed.

If you receive a suspicious message about Winter Fuel Payments, don’t engage – forward it to 7726 and delete it immediately.

Independent Age Chief Executive Joanna Elson CBE said:

Scammers are shamefully exploiting the Winter Fuel Payment to target older people living on low incomes. This entitlement is a vital lifeline that helps protect those facing financial hardship during the colder months.

Our helpline has received calls from older people who have been sent these fraudulent messages. Many of them are already anxious about being able to afford to heat their homes this winter, and these scam texts may wrongly lead them to believe they must take action to receive their payment.

The key message is clear: you do not need to do anything to receive your Winter Fuel Payment. If you are eligible, it will be paid automatically.

Jonathan Silvester, HMRC’s Digital Defence Lead, said:

Scammers target individuals by attempting to take your money or access your personal information. I’m urging you to stay alert to their pressure tactics.

Never let yourself be rushed. If someone contacts you relating to Winter Fuel Payments, wanting you to urgently transfer money or give personal information, be on your guard. If a phone call, text or email is suspicious or unexpected, don’t give out private information or reply, and don’t download attachments or click on links. You can report any suspicious HMRC-related activity on GOV.UK, just search ‘report an HMRC scam’.

Winter Fuel Payments will automatically be paid into people’s bank accounts with eligible pensioners receiving a letter in October or November saying how much they will receive. Payments will be made between mid-November and December 2025.

Supporting pensioners is a top priority for this Government which is why we are committed to the Triple Lock which means millions of pensioners will see their State Pension rise by up to £1,900.

On top of this, pensioners on low incomes can apply for further support this winter through Pension Credit – worth £4,300 on average a year. Pensioners with care needs can also apply for Attendance Allowance, worth over £5,740 a year and we will continue to urge anyone who thinks they are eligible to apply.

Know the facts:

• Winter Fuel Payments are made automatically: the vast majority of Winter Fuel Payments will be made automatically and you do not need to apply or provide personal information via text or email.
• The DWP will never ask for bank details via text message.
• Suspicious texts should be forwarded to 7726 which is free of charge, which helps phone providers block the numbers involved.

The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 24 September 2025.

Thousands more young people are to receive life-changing support into work or training – with football clubs across the country signing up to help the Government in their mission to ensure every 18-to-21-year-old has the chance to earn or learn.

• Every Premier League Football Club Charity now in talks with DWP to support the Youth Guarantee – helping more young people get into work or training.
• Youth Hub scheme to double to over 200 locations, giving more young people access to employment, skills and wellbeing support at football clubs, libraries and community centres closer to home.
• EFL in the Community, the charitable arm of the English Football League (EFL), and Rugby Football League confirm new partnerships, harnessing the power of sport to champion young people and break down barriers to opportunities as part of the Plan for Change.

Thousands more young people are to receive life-changing support into work or training – with football clubs across the country signing up to help the Government in their mission to ensure every 18-to-21-year-old has the chance to earn or learn.

The Government’s highly successful Youth Hubs – which are hosted by sports clubs and other community venues in England, Scotland and Wales – will almost double in number thanks to £25 million investment announced today.

The funding was announced as it was revealed that every Premier League club charity in England is now discussing with Government how they can help get young people earning or learning, while the EFL in the Community and Rugby Football League have also been confirmed as new partners, supporting the same aim.

This means even more young people across the country are being helped by their local teams, as well as the Government’s other Youth Guarantee partners.

To mark the expansion of the programme and our partnership with the Premier League, Secretary of State Pat McFadden will visit Selhurst Park, home to the Palace for Life Youth Hub and Crystal Palace football club, where he will meet staff and young people benefitting from the service to see first-hand the impact it is having in the community.

Youth Hubs offer personalised, wraparound employment, skills and wellbeing support to young people in the areas of highest need. Thanks to this latest investment they will almost double to over 200 places across England, Scotland and Wales in the next three years.

The Hubs bring support, such as CV and wellbeing advice, directly to young people – taking place in settings right at the heart of the community like sports clubs, libraries and community centres.

With nearly one million young people not in education, employment or training, this expansion is helping to inspire a renewed sense of purpose and ambition in young people as well as breaking down barriers to opportunity as part of the Plan for Change.

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Pat McFadden, said:

The number of young people not in education, employment or training is unacceptably high, and this Government will not stand by while so many are robbed of their potential and our country of its future.

Through our £25 million expansion of Youth Hubs and partnerships with the Premier League and other key organisations, we’re creating real opportunities for the next generation, ensuring support is targeted to those most in need.

This investment will support our mission to give every young person the skills and confidence they need to thrive, as we break down barriers to opportunity under our Plan for Change.

Run in partnership with Jobcentres, Youth Hubs bring Youth Work Coaches together with local partners including charities, councils and employers to provide everything from CV advice to skills training to careers guidance and wellbeing support. In future, they will also provide access to mental health services, housing and homelessness support.

Erin is one of many young people who have flourished thanks to the Government-funded support offered by her local Youth Hub.

Unemployed for two years and struggling with motivation, she visited the Palace for Life Youth Hub. After joining the hospitality programme where she gained valuable experience and confidence, she completed a work placement and was offered a permanent job, marking the start of an exciting new chapter.

The Secretary of State will host a roundtable at Selhurst Park with existing Youth Guarantee partners including the Premier League and Channel 4, as well as new partners such as the EFL in the Community and Rugby Football League.

Clare Sumner, chief policy and social impact officer at the Premier League said:

The Premier League is proud to support the expansion of Youth Hubs so young people, whatever their background, can access the opportunities, support and inspiration they deserve.

Between 2022 and 2025, the Premier League has invested £1.6 billion into wider football and communities, helping support people of all ages who need it most, and create more chances for young people to learn and grow. By working in partnership with Government on the Youth Guarantee, we can build on this foundation and ensure Youth Hubs offer even more opportunities to help young people thrive.

Together we are showing how football is more than a game, reaching those who need support most, helping them fulfil their potential and strengthening communities nationwide.

The announcement is the latest example of the Government’s work to tackle the rising number of young people not in education, employment, or training. In August, an additional £45 million was invested to extend funding for eight Youth Guarantee trailblazers across England whilst an extra £100 million will help to train up 40,000 young construction workers as the Government continues to break down barriers to opportunity under the Plan for Change.

It marks another step in the plan to Get Britain Working and raise living standards by modernising Jobcentres, boosting the National Living Wage, and creating more secure jobs through the Employment Rights Bill.

Additional information

Ayesha Baloch, Senior Policy Advisor at Impetus, said: 

The renewed focus on Youth Hubs is a fantastic opportunity to engage more young people in employment by creating a welcoming space where they truly want to be. Through a culture of hospitality, Youth Hubs have the potential to engage hundreds of thousands of young people currently locked out of the labour market and missing out on key employment support. A vital part of the Youth Guarantee, Hubs are a crucial outlet for ensuring all young people get the support they need to join the labour market and thrive in work.

Sam Avanzo Windett, Deputy Director at Learning and Work Institute (L&W), said:

With nearly a million young people not currently earning or learning, further investment in the Government’s Youth Hubs network is welcome. In England, we know that fewer than one in four young people not in education, employment or training are getting help to move into work and around half are not claiming benefits and risk missing out on support altogether. Youth Hubs co-locate services, making it easier for young people to access support and help overcome the associated stigma that deters many young people from engaging with Jobcentre Plus. Engaging and offering more young people help to find a job or improve their skills is essential for our future workforce and to help reach the Government’s aim for an 80 per cent employment rate.

Barry Fletcher, CEO at Youth Futures Foundation said: 

Youth Hubs have made a promising start at providing place-based solutions to help young people into work – meeting young people where they are with targeted support, welcoming spaces, and trusted relationships.

Expanding them and linking with Youth Guarantee trailblazer areas is an important part of the system response needed to reduce the large number of young people not in education, employment or training, and build a more prosperous future.

Neil Carberry, Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) Chief Executive, and an RFU-qualified rugby referee and coach, said:

This is the kind of creative thinking needed to encourage more young people into the workforce. It also keeps the ball rolling toward the goal of ensuring local organisations, employers, and recruiters target support effectively at economically inactive people in their communities. As recruiters, we know that all it takes is a small steer, suggestion, or personally delivered coaching to help a young person land a job.

Becci Newton, Director, Public Policy Research, Institute for Employment Studies, said:  

The Government’s announcement of substantial new investment in youth hubs across Great Britain is great news for young people, particularly those struggling with unemployment or inactivity. Hubs bring together a range of services to support young people to find work or training. Plus, hubs co-locate services so there can be easy access to support on physical and mental health, housing, transport and other possible issues.

Our evaluation with young people showed high degrees of satisfaction with youth hubs. Young people appreciated the personalised support available and the welcoming environment which helped to secure their engagement.

Patrick Milnes, Head of Policy, People and Work at the British Chambers of Commerce: 

Getting more young people into employment, education or training is a top priority for business.  

Firms know that the longer we leave this young pool of talent to drift away from the workplace the harder it becomes for them to engage. 

Collaboration with sports organisations can be a match winner. We really welcome this new initiative as a powerful springboard to accelerate Government schemes we know are already making a difference.

Elizabeth Taylor, ERSA’s Chief Executive said:

ERSA strongly welcomes the expansion of Youth Hubs, we have long campaigned for this model of co-location with work coaches, employment support providers and community-based organisations, as we know it is an effective way of harnessing engagement and better outcomes for individuals.

A report published last week (17 September) by ERSA, supported by EFL in the Community, found that Football Club charities are trusted and visible organisations, rooted in some of the most deprived communities in England and Wales, who can effectively engage with disadvantaged groups who may not otherwise access mainstream provision.

Marc Lovering, RFL Director of Development

The RFL are huge supporters of the Youth Hubs initiative. The sport makes a positive impact on thousands of young people across the north of England, especially through our charitable Foundations and Community Wellbeing Hubs – and we look forward to building on our work alongside the DWP, other agencies and sports under this exciting new investment.

• The expansion of Youth Hubs will include a standardised service model to ensure consistent, high-quality support across all Youth Hubs, marking a significant step forward in delivering more accessible, joined-up employment support and connecting young people to a wider range of services such as health, housing, and wellbeing support.
• The latest ONS young people not in education, employment or training statistics were published on Thursday 21 August at 9.30 here: Young people not in education, employment or training (NEET), UK – Office for National Statistics

The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 23 September 2025.

The Pension Protection Fund has today (23rd September) confirmed that it will not charge a levy to pension providers, saving £45 million across 5,000 Defined Benefit (DB) pension schemes.

• Pension Protection Fund (PPF) will not charge a levy this year unlocking £45 million of savings for 5000 pension schemes
• The savings can be used to boost the economy through investments or top up pension pots
• This was made possible by the Government’s Pension Schemes Bill which is removing barriers to growth as part of our Plan for Change

Growth is at the heart of the Government’s Plan for Change and these significant savings could now be used for investments to boost the UK economy, or to strengthen the security of members benefits.

This decision is a direct result of the reforms set out in the Government’s Pension Schemes Bill, demonstrating how our plans to modernise the pension system are already delivering for the public and the UK economy.

Minister for Pensions, Torsten Bell said:

Rigid rules currently leave pension schemes paying millions into the Pensions Protection Fund even when extra funding is not required.

The Pension Schemes Bill will sweep away those constraints. This will support better funded pension schemes and greater investment by firms.

The PPF levy is a charge on eligible pension schemes that pays into a central reserve – which currently sits at a £14 billion surplus – used to protect employees’ pensions if their employer collapses. Regulations currently operate a use it or lose it mechanism, limiting increases to 25% and preventing a zero levy from being invested if it were ever needed.

The Pension Schemes Bill, which has received wide-ranging support, rewrites the rules around the levy making it easier for the PPF to adjust it year on year and without risking losing the power to charge if it drops to zero. This allows for greater flexibility freeing up money in times of high surpluses while ensuring that it can be altered if needed to protect the future of schemes and safeguard pensioners.

Kate Jones, PPF Chair said:

I’m pleased that we’re able to save DB schemes £45m this year. The legislative changes we’ve needed to further reduce the levy have made good progress, giving us the confidence to act decisively for this year’s levy.

As we reach this significant milestone on our journey to financial self-sufficiency, we recognise the invaluable contribution levy payers have made over the past 20 years. We couldn’t have delivered the protection and peace of mind to members without them.

This new approach to setting the levy to zero demonstrates the Government’s dedication to ensuring the sustainability of the pension system while reducing the financial burden on employers and pension schemes. The move comes as a result of the fund’s robust financial position allowing them to balance the interests of levy payers and its members.

Alongside this, the Pension Schemes Bill will boost workers’ pension pots by £29,000 through hoovering up small pension pots worth £1,000 into one place, protecting savers from underperforming schemes and creating Defined Contribution megafunds so bigger and better pension schemes can drive down costs and invest in a wider range of assets.

Furher information

• The Board of Pension Protection Fund collects a levy from eligible defined benefit occupational pension schemes.
• The Pension Protection Fund has a reserve of more than £14 bn. In view of its strong financial position, the Pension Protection Fund announced that they would more than halve the 2024/25 levy to £45m for the financial year 2025/26. They have now confirmed that the levy will be reduced to zero, without risking its ability to pay its members’ benefits.
• Restrictions in the legislation prevent the levy from being significantly reduced even to zero and raised back up again within a reasonable timeframe. It was announced in the Pension Schemes Bill that the Government intends to remove this restriction and enable the Pension Protection Fund to reduce the levy to zero or a low amount.

The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 21 August 2025.

Equity and inclusion consultant Zara Todd has been appointed as Chair of the Government’s new Independent Disability Advisory Panel, taking a guiding role in its development and focus.

Deaf and disabled people and individuals with long-term health conditions on the newly-created panel will also advise the Government on health and disability policies.

Announced in the Get Britain Working White Paper, the panel will be an independent advisory group with a broad remit across all of health and disability policy.

It will provide guidance, recommendations and feedback to embed lived experience into policy design and delivery, aiming to build trust and strengthen relationships with the sector.

With over 20 years of experience working with a range of organisations on Disability Equality and participation, Zara Todd will be central in recruiting the wider panel and reporting its ideas and insights back to the Government.

Minister for Social Security and Disability Sir Stephen Timms said:

It is absolutely vital that the voices of Deaf and disabled people and those with long-term health conditions are at the centre of our health and disability policy design, so I am pleased to announce Zara Todd as the Chair of new Independent Disability Advisory Panel.

Zara’s extensive and wide-ranging experience, including designing and facilitating disability inclusive spaces, will be invaluable in guiding the collaboration we hope to build.

I look forward to listening to, learning from and collaborating with the Panel over the coming months.

Zara Todd, Chair of the Disability Advisory Panel said:

I’m delighted to chair the new Independent Disability Advisory Panel and help ensure Deaf and disabled people and people with long-term health conditions are heard in Government policy-making.

The Panel will aim to strengthen relationships between the Government and sector, and I look forward to working with other disabled people to connect lived experience with policy development.

I hope that working collaboratively, we can build stronger links and build an approach that works for all.

Since 2024, Zara has been a Chairperson of the Edinburgh Accessibility Commission, providing independent advice on accessibility for disabled people to Edinburgh council. She is currently a member of the mobility and access committee for Scotland (MACS) she is a member of the British Council Disability Advisory Panel and is currently the convener of Disability Equality Scotland.

She has a long history of working with disabled people’s organisations including the Alliance for Inclusive Education, the European Network on Independent Living, and Equal Lives. Zara is currently on the board of Disabled Peoples’ International and was previously the chair of Inclusion London. She is an experienced trainer and facilitator and delivers training in disability equality and human rights.

The Panel will run separately to the Timms Review of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), but expertise and insight will be shared between the two.

Further information

• An Expression of Interest for the Independent Disability Advisory Panel will be launched soon on GOV.UK to appoint Panel members. Full application details will be available on GOV.UK once the recruitment campaign officially launches.

The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 19 August 2025.

Millions of people will receive their essential financial support before the August bank holiday weekend, as the Government has confirmed that benefit payments will be brought forward to Friday 22 August.

• Change to benefits payment date for millions of people will help them with their financial planning and providing peace of mind for those on low incomes.
• It comes ahead of the new school year, which will allow families and carers to plan their spending with confidence, knowing their support is already in place.
• This proactive measure demonstrates the Government’s commitment through its Plan for Change to raising living standards, breaking down barriers to opportunity and ensuring growth is felt by everyone, everywhere.

The early payment arrangement will apply to all major benefits including Universal Credit, Child Benefit, State Pension, Personal Independence Payment, Attendance Allowance, Carer’s Allowance, and Disability Living Allowance, ensuring that payments originally scheduled for the weekend of 23-25 August reach recipients on time.

This proactive measure will provide financial certainty for families as they prepare for the new school year, allowing parents and carers to plan their spending with confidence knowing their support is already in place during what can be an expensive time for households.

Minister for Social Security and Disability Sir Stephen Timms said:

We know how much families rely on these payments, and by bringing them forward ahead of the bank holiday we’re ensuring no one has to worry about whether their support will be there when they need it most.

This is especially important ahead of the new school year – no family should have to choose between buying school supplies and putting food on the table.

This is what our Plan for Change is all about – putting working families and the most vulnerable first and ensuring every family has the security they need to plan for the future.

The early payment policy ensures recipients receive their funds before banks and government offices close for the holiday weekend, maintaining the continuity of support that millions depend upon.

This announcement comes as the Government continues to deliver on its Plan for Change, breaking down barriers to opportunity and raising living standards in every part of the United Kingdom.

For the first time ever, the Universal Credit standard allowance will permanently rise above inflation, delivering £725 by 2029/30 in cash terms for a single person aged 25 or over. This represents the highest permanent real terms increase to the main rate of out-of-work support since 1980, according to the Institute for Fiscal Studies, and will benefit nearly four million households.

These reforms will change the lives of people across the country as part of the Government’s mission-led approach to kickstart economic growth. By putting more money into working people’s pockets and ensuring those seeking employment have the support they need, these changes will drive productivity, prosperity and higher living standards across the UK.

Additional Information:

• Benefit payments originally due on Saturday 23, Sunday 24, and Monday 25 August 2025 will be paid early on Friday 22 August 2025.
• Applies across the entire United Kingdom (Scotland follows the same principle despite different bank holiday arrangements).
• Affects multiple benefits: Universal Credit, Child Benefit, State Pension, Personal Independence Payment, Attendance Allowance, Carer’s Allowance, Disability Living Allowance, Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance, and Pension Credit.

The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 22 July 2025.

Victims of miscarriages of justice will no longer lose out on key benefit support, thanks to legislative changes coming into force today.