Workers who lose jobs to be prioritised for benefits over those who never had one in new welfare crackdown

New Benefit Plan Prioritizes Workers Who've Paid into the System

Under a new welfare crackdown, workers who lose their jobs will be prioritised for benefits over those who have never had one. This new "unemployment insurance" benefit will provide greater income protection for claimants who have paid into the system, while new graduates and others may receive less support.

Ministers Aim to Get Britain Working Again

Ministers state they have a "moral duty to get Britain working again" as the country faces a crisis with over 9.3 million working-aged individuals unemployed and not actively seeking work. The benefit plan, to be introduced by Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall, will merge Jobseeker’s Allowance and Employment and Support Allowance for those with disabilities or health conditions.

Focus on Reforming the System and Encouraging Work

Under the new scheme, support will be time-limited, and all claimants will be required to actively seek employment, marking a significant change in the welfare system. The reform aims to engage disabled individuals and those with long-term health conditions in conversations about employment support, with exemptions in place for those unable to work.

Government to Restore Trust and Fairness in the System

The government emphasizes the need to restore trust and fairness in the welfare system by addressing the broken assessment process. The reforms are not solely driven by financial concerns but by a desire to provide meaningful opportunities for individuals to progress in life and avoid dependency on benefits.

Upcoming Welfare Cuts and Opposition from Labour MPs

Ministers are set to announce over £6 billion in welfare cuts, including measures to tighten qualifications for Personal Independence Payments. These proposed changes are likely to spark opposition from left-leaning Labour MPs who are planning to revolt against the cuts.