Universal Credit continues to be rolled out across the country, as the Government attempts to “simplify the system” and “revolutionise welfare”.

On November 1 the scheme was launched in St Albans to people in and out of work, those on low incomes, families and those with disabilities.

Paid monthly, Universal Credit replaces six existing benefits: Income Support, Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Housing Benefit, Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit.

The application process is completed online, while those on Universal Credit have 24 hour access to an online account that they can use to manage their claim.

National charity Turn2us explained how they have been contacted by several people concerned about and confused by Universal Credit.

However, it assured people that only new claimants will go on the system now, while those claiming existing legacy benefits will be switched to it between 2019 and 2022.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) believe the new system makes “work pay” and allows those who are in work to increase their hours and earnings.

Damian Hinds, Minister for Employment, said: “Universal Credit is central to our goal of building a Britain that works for everyone and it is already transforming lives across the country.

“We are simplifying the system, making it more tailored to claimants needs and enabling those who have been out of a job for a while to take on short contracts to build up their skills and confidence for a full time role.”

The DWP estimates that a £700m boost from Universal Credit will benefit around 3 million households across the country, including single parents and those on the lowest incomes.

It added that families on Universal Credit who move into work can claim back up to 85 per cent of their childcare costs, significantly boosting their annual finances.

For more information, visit www.gov.uk/universal-credit