Over 60,000 veterans on Universal Credit as Tories accused of failing army

On May 10, 2024

Over 60,000 veterans are now relying on Universal Credit as Tory ministers are accused of failing those who have served our country.

Latest figures show that 4,200 serving Armed Forces personnel and 62,000 people who were previously in the services are receiving UC.

Labour is trying to woo voters who have served in the military. At the general election its candidates in target seats include several veterans. Former Army intelligence operator Mike Tapp is standing in the newly created Dover and Deal constituency, while ex-Royal Marine captain Fred Thomas is taking on Veterans Minister Johnny Mercer in Plymouth Moor View.

Labour’s Shadow Veterans Minister Steve McCabe said: “The Conservatives have halved employment support for veterans and failed Armed Forces communities for the last 14 years. Ministers have overseen a rise in veterans’ homelessness, repeatedly failed to roll out veterans ID cards and tens of thousands of veterans are now relying on Universal Credit just to get by during a cost-of-living crisis.

“Labour is deeply proud of our Armed Forces personnel, veterans, and their families. In government, we will renew the nation’s contract with those who serve and fully incorporate the Armed Forces Covenant into law.”

In November last year, Employment Minister Jo Churchill admitted “no assessment has been made” on potential impact of increases in the cost of living on the number of serving armed forces personnel claiming Universal Credit. Rishi Sunak has threatened to take benefits away from some people suffering from anxiety and depression as part of a clamp down on welfare payments.

The starting salary for newly recruited soldiers is £18,687.

A Government spokesman said: “We are committed to supporting veterans and ensuring those who serve and have served this country are cared for. A new scheme will support veterans in securing high paid jobs, where they can hone the skills that they developed in the military in key sectors that are helping to boost the economy.”