With more changes to benefits coming including the controversial rollout of Universal Credit (UTC), we asked the department of work and pensions (DWP) to share how this is being implemented in Greater Manchester.

There is general information on what Universal Credit is and eligibility here. A useful toolkit with supporting information for customers & partner organisations is available here. Alternatively, there are a series of videos to watch about UTC full service.

You can also read the reaction from Andy Burnham and GM leaders here.

Greater Manchester Rollout

All Jobcentres in Greater Manchester will deliver the ‘Universal Credit Live Service’.

In addition, the digital platform known as the ‘Universal Credit Full Service’ is being rolled in the Manchester Local Authority area, and is up and running in jobcentres located in Oldham and Trafford. This is the timetable for the rollout…

• 25 October 2017 – Alexandra Park, Didsbury, Rusholme.
• 29 November 2017 – Newton Heath, Openshaw.
• January 2018 – Longsight Jobcentre.
• 2 May 2018 – Cheetham Hill, Wythenshawe.

The services will be rolled out across Greater Manchester by LA area with the final date being August 2018. However elements of the services are still being developed so the plans may change. Some customers who depending on their circumstances may continue to receive legacy benefits.

It is envisaged that the national implementation programme for Universal Credit Full Service will be completed for all customer groups by 2022. Greater Manchester Universal Credit Expansion Dates by Local Authority Area are as follows…

• Rochdale Feb 2018
• Tameside March 2018
• Wigan April 2018
• Bury May 2018
• Salford June 2018
• Bolton July 2018
• Stockport August 2018