Missed appointments including calls can lead to sanctions up to 100%

Universal Credit claimants in the UK can face reductions to their payments if they miss appointments, including phone calls, without a valid reason, according to guidance on the government website. The rules apply to the claimant commitment that people accept when they sign up for Universal Credit, which sets out the steps they will take to look for work and increase their earnings while receiving the benefit.

Claimant commitments are typically discussed at a Jobcentre meeting, where advisers will consider individual circumstances and barriers to meeting the requirements, such as caring responsibilities. Once agreed, commitments are reviewed regularly and can be adjusted if a claimant’s situation changes. The meetings that form part of that process can take place in person or over the phone. If a claimant fails to attend an appointment, official guidance says they must have a valid reason for doing so.

If a reason for missing an appointment is offered and not accepted by the Department for Work and Pensions, claimants may be issued a sanction that reduces their Universal Credit payment. The guidance states that payments can be reduced by up to 100 percent of the current standard...