Mark Whitehead 03 November 2017

35,000 more households in work due to benefit cap, Whitehall claims

The number of households moving into employment because of a limit on their state benefits is continuing to rise, according to the Government.

Work and pensions secretary David Gauke said 35,000 households had gone into work in the last quarter because of the benefits cap, up 5,000 from the previous three months.

He said the latest figures represented 'thousands of success stories' and the total was continuing to rise since the measure was introduced in 2013.

The cap limits the amount of benefits a household can claim to £23,000 in Greater London and £20,000 a year elsewhere.

Since it started 160,000 households have had their benefits capped and 39,000 have moved into work according to official figures.

The Government says the measure incentivises work because anyone in employment and eligible for Working Tax Credit or the equivalent under Universal Credit is exempt.

Mr Gauke said: 'It is fair that people out of work face the same choices as those in work, and putting a cap on how much someone can receive in benefits restores that balance.

'Behind today’s figures are thousands of success stories as people start new jobs and benefit from a regular wage for their families.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Director of Social Work and Social Care

Trafford Council
£100,731 to £104,625
You will join a values-driven senior leadership team, providing visible and responsive leadership. Manchester
Recuriter: Trafford Council

Housing Ombudsman

Housing Ombudsman Service
£130,095 per annum, negotiable based on experience.
The Housing Ombudsman Service allows colleagues to choose if they wish to work in the London office, from home or a hybrid of the two London (Greater)
Recuriter: Housing Ombudsman Service

Head of Legal and Monitoring Officer

Powys County Council
£90,347 – £98,135 per annum/y flwyddyn
We’re seeking an energetic, innovative, and inspirational leader to join our team at Powys County Council Powys
Recuriter: Powys County Council

Senior Business Development Officer (MaaS)

Essex County Council
£36341.0000 - £42754.0000 per annum
Senior Business Development Officer (MaaS)Fixed Term, 2-year contract with potential for extension Full Time, 37 hours per week£36,341 to £42,754 per England, Essex, Chelmsford
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Customer Advisor (Events) - Braintree District Council

Essex County Council
Up to £13.8000 per hour
Customer Advisor (Events) - Braintree District Council£13.80 PAYE / £17.67 Umbrella Braintree, EssexPart-Time, Temporary Closing Date
Recuriter: Essex County Council
Linkedin Banner