Universal Credit Entitlement for Offenders Detained in Hospital

Our welfare system, through benefits like Universal Credit, provides a crucial safety net to millions of people across this country but it cannot be right, that individuals who have been convicted of serious crimes, continue to receive substantial support from this system while their living costs are being met in hospital.

It is important that the people of Great Britain see fairness in their welfare system and that it has their confidence. I have therefore made the decision that I intend to bring forward proposals that would remove benefit entitlement for offenders who are detained in hospital following conviction for serious violent offences. I will begin a programme of engagement this month, that will seek the views of experts and stakeholders including clinicians, victims’ groups and the mental health sector on the best way to do this. The Department for Work and Pensions will also work closely with the Devolved Governments to ensure there is a consistent approach.