Thread by @lewis_goodall

I asked @DWP several questions about the changes the PM announced on Sick Pay and Uni Credit. This is what they said:

On Statutory Sick Pay

1) Is the extension of SSR to day 1 of illness permanent or temporary?

-It's a temporary measure. Details to be set out in legislation.

Q2) Does it apply to coronavirus only or more widely?

A) To Coronavirus only.

Q3) Is there a plan to decrease the threshold at which you're entitled to it? (At present it's £118 per week, 2 million fall below it)

A: "Nothing about that was announced today. Those who fall below that can claim Universal Credit or ESA."

Q4) Will SSR payment rate be increased? (At present it's only £94.25 a week)

A: "Nothing about that was announced today. There will be a natural uprating to £95.85pw in April."

Q5) Will SSR's scope be expanded for gig workers/self employed?

A) They are able to apply for UC or ESA. "Some of these people might already be on it."

Q6) Can you claim SSR if you suspect you have Coronavirus, rather than it being confirmed (ie if you self isolate as a precaution)

A) Yes.

On Universal Credit

Q7) If you're on Universal Credit and you can't attend scheduled appointments, will you face sanction?

A) "Staff are ready to support people- claimants shouldn't be sanctioned but they must inform us in order to avoid it."

Q8) Are there any plans to expedite the five week wait between UC application and payment?

A) "Nothing about that was announced today. It is possible to apply for an emergency payment, which is fairly typical, which can be paid much faster."