Conservatives pledge 'tough love' benefit rules for under-25s
The Conservatives say they would require some 18- to 24-year-olds seeking Universal Credit to join a work programme, as part of plans to address youth unemployment.
The proposal applies to applicants who have not held a job for at least six months while working 16 hours or more each week. Participants would receive a manager and attend job-search and interview workshops.
Those with prior qualifying work experience, health problems or caring duties would not be included. The party also wants to examine whether parents’ income and savings should affect benefits paid to their children.
Helen Barnard of the anti-poverty charity Trussell criticised the plans, arguing young people need better-quality support. The Conservatives say their conditions would be tougher than the current Universal Credit commitment to seek work or increase earnings.
Youth unemployment is receiving increased political attention before a major report by former minister Alan Milburn on addressing the issue. The article does not specify when the proposed rules would take effect.
Key points
- Some young Universal Credit applicants would have to join a job-search and interview programme.
- Exemptions would cover applicants with qualifying work history, health issues or caring responsibilities.
- Trussell criticised the proposals as insufficient support; Alan Milburn’s report is forthcoming.