Changes are being made within weeks that will affect millions of people as new Department for Work and Pensions payments take effect
The UK Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is implementing changes to Universal Credit and benefits, with significant increases for pensioners compared to others. Most benefits, including Universal Credit, will rise by 1.7%, while pensioners will see a 4.1% increase, amounting to an annual boost of £473. State pensions will increase from £221.20 to £230.27 per week for full pensions and from £169.50 to £176.45 for basic pensions. Other benefits, such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Employment Support Allowance (ESA), and Disability Living Allowance (DLA), will also rise by 1.7%. However, some benefits, including the Benefit Cap and savings limits, remain unchanged. The changes aim to help households cope with rising costs, though critics argue that the increases for most benefits lag behind inflation and the support given to pensioners.
