社会福利与救济法
通用信贷、残疾福利、福利上诉和社会保障法庭。
简介
社会福利法规范国家福利，包括通用信贷和残疾津贴。
In Brief
Universal Credit replaces six legacy benefits and is administered by the DWP. If a benefit decision is wrong, you must request a mandatory reconsideration within one month before you can appeal to the First-tier Tribunal. The tribunal conducts a full re-hearing and can substitute its own decision. Free advice is available from Citizens Advice and welfare rights organisations.
核心原则
Universal Credit — A single means-tested benefit replacing Income Support, income-based JSA, income-related ESA, Housing Benefit, Child Tax Credit, and Working Tax Credit. Administered by DWP.
Personal Independence Payment — A non-means-tested disability benefit for those aged 16–66 with long-term health conditions or disabilities affecting daily living and/or mobility.
Mandatory Reconsideration — Before appealing to the tribunal, claimants must request a mandatory reconsideration of the decision by the DWP.
Tribunal Appeals — Appeals are heard by the First-tier Tribunal (Social Security and Child Support). The tribunal can substitute its own decision. Further appeal to the Upper Tribunal on points of law.
Sanctions — Universal Credit can be reduced (sanctioned) for failures to meet work-related requirements. Sanctions can be challenged through mandatory reconsideration and appeal.
Housing Benefit — For those not yet on Universal Credit, Housing Benefit helps with rent costs. Local Housing Allowance rates apply to private tenants.
关键法规
Welfare Reform Act 2012
Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992
重要判例
R (Carmichael) v Secretary of State for Work and Pensions
[2016] UKSC 58
常见情景
Universal Credit claim refused
Request a mandatory reconsideration within one month. If unsuccessful, appeal to the First-tier Tribunal. The tribunal rehears the case and can substitute its own decision. Free advice is available from Citizens Advice and welfare rights organisations.
Benefit sanction applied unfairly
Request a mandatory reconsideration, explaining why the sanction is wrong. If unsuccessful, appeal to the tribunal. Hardship payments may be available during the sanction period.
Related Careers
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I appeal a Universal Credit decision?
You must first request a mandatory reconsideration from the DWP within 1 month of the decision. If the mandatory reconsideration maintains the decision, you can appeal to the First-tier Tribunal (Social Security and Child Support) within 1 month of the mandatory reconsideration notice. The tribunal conducts a full re-hearing. Free advice is available from Citizens Advice.
What is Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and how is it assessed?
PIP is a non-means-tested benefit for people aged 16–66 with a long-term health condition or disability affecting daily living and/or mobility. Eligibility is assessed by a health professional against descriptors for 'daily living' activities and 'mobility'. The rate depends on the score awarded. Decisions can be challenged by mandatory reconsideration and tribunal appeal.
Am I entitled to help with housing costs on Universal Credit?
Universal Credit includes a housing costs element to help with rent (private and social). Private renters receive the Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rate for their area, which is based on the bottom 30th percentile of local rents. There is a cap based on family size. Some renters will have a shortfall between LHA and their actual rent.
Can I claim Universal Credit while working?
Yes — Universal Credit is designed to support people in work as well as those out of work. The amount reduces as your earnings increase through a 'taper rate' (55p deduction for every £1 earned above your work allowance, if applicable). The system is designed to ensure you are always better off working.
Important Deadlines
Typical Costs
Official Resources
What To Do Next
Step-by-Step Guides
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