Universal credit - claimant commitment and sanctions

About this course

Most universal credit (UC) claimants have work-related requirements set out in a document called their claimant commitment. When a claimant doesn’t keep up with these requirements, they can see their UC stopped or reduced through a sanction.  

Benefits advice can be crucial for these claimants. Can requirements be adjusted or removed? Can you refuse to sign an unreasonable commitment? Can you challenge a sanction?  

This essential one-morning course delivers an overview of the rules and includes practical tips for advisers looking to increase their confidence and effectiveness in this area. 

The course covers: 

• The claimant commitment and what happens if you don’t sign it
• Work-related requirements for different groups of people
• Flexibility and ‘easements’
• Sanctions and how to challenge them
• Hardship payments 

Method of delivery and timings 

This half-day standard-level course is delivered online via Zoom. It runs from 10am to 1pm, with a half hour break between 11.15am-11.45am. 

It is a practical course delivered using a combination of trainer presentation, exercises and group discussion. Participants will need a Wi-Fi connection and a suitable device to access the internet. It is not recommended to join via a mobile phone.