Poor training compounds Universal Credit domestic abuse misery

Responding to a report by the Work and Pensions Committee that reveals Jobcentre Plus staff do not feel equipped to deal with critical issues like domestic abuse, Liberal Democrat Work and Pensions Spokesperson Stephen Lloyd said:  "Universal Credit is paid to one person in the household, often the man. In some cases, this has led to domestic abuse victims being deprived of money, and less able to escape their dangerous home situation. "A month ago I wrote to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions to raise these concerns. I have yet to receive a response. “Compounding the misery, this report reveals that a lack of training among DWP staff prevents them from dealing with domestic abuse. Now more than ever the Government must get a grip and make it easier for domestic abuse victims to have money paid into a separate bank account.”