Our third key finding in our research into Universal Credit is that conditionality and sanctions can cause specific challenges for single-parent households. We also know that those with caring responsibilities are overrepresented in the statistics on who is sanctioned.

Single parents Grace and Jess talk about some of the specific challenges they have faced with the conditionality regime. 

To address the challenges with conditionality and sanctions: 

The DWP must publish clear guidance and information so that work coaches, single parents and those providing advice and support services all understand the detail of the UC regime and are very clear about the expectations the system places on claimants. 

 The DWP must use its review of Universal Credit to: 

• reverse the 2023 conditionality rules on lead carers and review conditionality and sanctions rules more widely, including looking at the benefits of abolishing sanctions entirely 

• ensure that if sanctions are to continue they are only used in the most exceptional cases with forewarning and discussion with the claimant 

• make sure there is clear information available to claimants on how to challenge a sanction and signposting to financial and mental health support