Reports

This report was conducted and written by several local Citizen Advice offices in the North East. 

Universal Credit sanctions can have a significant impact on people already facing financial pressure. Drawing on survey responses from 429 Universal Credit claimants and in-depth interviews with people across the North East, this research examines how Jobcentre appointment requirements, public transport, and personal circumstances can contribute to missed appointments and sanctions. The findings show that barriers such as unreliable or unaffordable transport, illness, caring responsibilities, and difficulties communicating with Jobcentres can leave claimants at risk of losing vital income.