The pandemic demonstrated how resilient the UK social security system can be in the face of significant challenges. Despite the huge surge in demand, Universal Credit continued to function and benefits were paid out to a markedly increased pool of claimants. That Universal Credit was able to withstand these pressures was a result not only of digitisation, but also the immense efforts of DWP staff, and also to the leadership of the DWP. We want to pay tribute to their commitment and hard work ...

The pandemic demonstrated how resilient the UK social security system can be in the face of significant challenges. Despite the huge surge in demand, Universal Credit continued to function and benefits were paid out to a markedly increased pool of claimants. That Universal Credit was able to withstand these pressures was a result not only of digitisation, but also the immense efforts of DWP staff, and also to the leadership of the DWP. We want to pay tribute to their commitment and hard work in facing such unprecedented challenges. Type: conclusion | Number: 2 | Paragraph: 57 | Response status: under_consideration Government response: Statutory Sick Pay should not be looked at in isolation, more than half of employees (60%) receive more than the statutory minimum from their employer. In the response to ‘Health is Everyone’s Business’ consultation published in 2021, the UK Government stated the pandemic was not the right time to i