IS Universal Credit good for business?

A new research project wants to hear from employers in Greater Manchester to find out their views on Universal Credit and how it affects their business.

Most research into out-of-work benefits focuses on how the system affects jobseekers.

But this new approach, led by Manchester Metropolitan University’s Centre for Decent Work and Productivity and supported by the Economic and Social Research Council, will explore what impacts Universal Credit has had on job creators.

Introduced in 2013, Universal Credit is paid to those who are out of work or on a low income.

Project leader, Dr Katy Jones of the Centre for Decent Work and Productivity, said: “There is little or no emphasis on whether the applicant is a good fit for the role they are applying for or how long they are likely to stay in the job if they are successful.

“We want to hear directly from employers about their experience of the Universal Credit and understand what works well and what doesn’t.

“What changes can be made to create a Universal Credit system that helps employers find the right candidate and helps jobseekers earn fulfilling long term employment?”

All responses will help towards a research paper which will be submitted to the government.

To take part in the research, contact Dr Katy Jones at katy.jones@mmu.ac.uk or follow the project on Twitter @UC_Employers for updates.