Government Attacked Over Continued Failure to Define 'Vulnerable'

The Government has reiterated its commitment to supporting "vulnerable claimants" in its response to the Work and Pensions Select Committee report into Universal Credit.  But ministers have been criticised for their continued failure to provide a clear definition of what "vulnerable" actually means.

Dame Anne Begg MP, the Chair of the Committee, expressed disappointment at the Government's response.  "I am particularly disappointed that the Government has declined to accept our recommendation that it should develop and publish a clear definition of vulnerable groups. A great deal of discretion will be given to DWP staff to make decisions about who needs extra support. This creates the risk of people not being identified before they have fallen into hardship and debt.” Read more on 24dash.