Universal Credit began its roll out in Coventry more than 3 years ago. Roll out is still not complete. Covid 19 lockdown - with increased redundancies, furlough schemes and support programmes for the self-employed – has forced a large number of formerly employed people to make new claims for Universal Credit. What has the experience been like for you?

UC is not the only welfare benefit received by thousands of Coventry residents. Other earnings replacement benefits (like Jobseekers Allowance), disability benefits (like Personal Independence Payments), Carers benefits and Pensioner benefits have also continued to be delivered despite the closure of Jobcentre Plus offices, the suspension of face-to-face medical assessments and the prioritisation of UC new claims.

Food poverty has increased substantially in parallel to these developments. If you have been caught up in the delivery of welfare benefits, and suffered because of delays or interruptions to vital benefit income, please complete the short questionnaire below and share your experience.