BASW welcomes High Court challenge over ‘legacy benefits’

The discrepancy between the amount that people on Universal Credit receive and the people on legacy benefits will receive will affect many people that BASW members support in their roles

Last year, people on Universal Credit received an increase of £20 per week to address hardship and increasing poverty levels – but the near 2 million people on social security such as Employment Support Allowance, Income Support, and Job Seekers Allowance (also known as ‘legacy benefits’) were not given this increase.

The rollout of Universal Credit is still ongoing and not due to be completed until 2024, which means some people that are still on those legacy benefits have been £20 out of pocket compared to Universal Credit claimants. This is most likely to affect people who are disabled, sick, or carers.

Two people in receipt of Employment Support Allowance have challenged this difference in treatment by submitting an application to the High Court for judicial review, arguing that it is discriminatory. They are being supported by Jamie Burton QC at Doughty Street Chambers. Garden Court Chamber, who are being instructed by Osbornes Law.

This discrepancy between the amount that people on Universal Credit receive and the people on legacy benefits will receive will affect many people that BASW members support in their roles.

This issue encompasses both poverty and injustice - two issues BASW is actively campaigning against. 

BASW is also campaigning to stop the Government from cutting Universal Credit by £20 in the Autumn.

For further information about the High Court challenge, please visit the Osborne's Law website.