Recent research by the Poverty Alliance highlights the multiple challenges experienced by young adult parents and care-experienced young adults at different stages of the Universal Credit process – from limited information and support when applying and navigating assessments to inadequate payments that leave them struggling to get by.
One in ten young adults (aged 16-24) in the UK depend on Universal Credit for managing essential living and housing costs. While it is an important lifeline, providing vital financial support at a time when young adults are also often navigating employment, education, and independence, younger people receiving Universal Credit can face multiple barriers to accessing information and support. Young adults also receive a lower Universal Credit standard allowance than older age groups, and they are more likely to be subject to stricter work-search requirements and sanctions.
Working with a young adult Advisory Group, the Poverty Alliance carried out participatory research to understand the experiences and views of young adult parents and care experienced young adults receiving Universal Credit in Scotland.
The research highlights the multiple challenges experienced by young adult parents and care-experienced young adults at different stages of the Universal Credit process – from limited information and support when applying and navigating assessments to inadequate payments that leave them struggling to get by. It calls for urgent changes to Universal Credit to ensure that young adults receive the support they need.