Key facts
- Conservatives propose new work requirements for under-25s on Universal Credit.
- Those without six months of prior work would join a "Get to Work" scheme.
- Participants would receive a "Get to Work Allowance" requiring daily attendance at job centers or training.
- The scheme would last six months, with benefits cut by 30% if unemployment persists.
- Exemptions exist for those with work history, health issues, or care responsibilities.
- Labour also emphasized job creation over welfare payments for young people.
The UK Conservative party has announced plans to introduce stricter work requirements for individuals under 25 who are claiming Universal Credit. The proposed "tough love" approach aims to tackle youth joblessness by incentivizing work and training.
Under the new proposals, young people aged 18 to 24 who are fit to work but have not been employed for at least six continuous months, working a minimum of 16 hours per week, would be moved onto a "Get to Work" scheme. Instead of Universal Credit, they would receive a "Get to Work Allowance" at the same rate but would be required to attend a job center daily, participate in work experience, or engage in work readiness courses. These participants would also be assigned a manager and attend job search workshops and interview preparation sessions.
The program is designed to last up to six months. If an individual secures employment during this period, the scheme ends. However, those who remain unemployed after six months would face a 30% cut to their benefits. Exemptions from these new rules would be in place for young people who have previously worked for six months, those with health issues, individuals with care responsibilities, or those who are estranged.
The Conservatives also indicated a review into whether parents' earnings and savings should be considered when determining welfare payments for their children. Shadow work and pensions secretary Helen Whately stated the measures are intended to reduce the number of young people not in education, employment, or training (Neets), which she described as a "waste of their potential and a disaster for our economy."
Meanwhile, the Labour party has also focused on youth employment, with Chancellor John Healey emphasizing job creation over benefit payments. The Department for Work and Pensions announced a new government scheme that will provide £2,000 to small and medium-sized businesses for hiring young apprentices, supported by the Federation of Small Businesses.