UNIVERSAL Credit is now available to more claimants across Ayr.

The aim is to ensure that Ayr Universal Credit will apply to all claimant types, including people with disabilities, families and low earners, as well as jobseekers

From April, families and disabled people on Universal Credit in work keep more of what they earn. 

As of last week more people across Ayr will benefit from a tailored welfare system, receiving additional support to move into and progress within work. 

This comes as the Universal Credit service expands to people in and out of work, those on low incomes, families, and those with disabilities.

Universal Credit replaces six benefits with one monthly payment and is already being claimed in Ayr by over 120 single jobseekers.

From last week anyone in Ayr who would previously have made a claim to Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, Income support, Working and Child Tax Credit and Housing Benefit will instead claim Universal Credit.

Minister for Employment Alok Sharma said: “In Ayr single jobseekers are already receiving support from their dedicated work coach to find employment or increase their hours and earnings.

"Now, all types of claimants will be able to benefit from the one-to-one support.”

Lynne Walker, local Jobcentre Plus Employer and Partnership Manager added:“Universal Credit offers tailored support, which includes more personalised help from a work coach. 

“The new system is also more flexible.”

Those on Universal Credit will now have 24-hour access to an online account that they can use to manage their claim, including reporting changes of circumstances, checking the details of their claim and date of their next Universal Credit payment.