Universal Credit (UC), a significant reform of the social security system, is now fully rolled out across the UK. Some key aspects of UC policy and practice are devolved. This briefing sets out the first independent investigation into how the devolved differences are experienced and viewed across the four UK countries by drawing on data from innovative online participatory workshops (Devolved Conversations) with participants from each UK country.

The Devolved Conversations explored devolved differences regarding the frequency of UC payments and whether the housing element is paid to the claimant or their landlord. There was a general preference for twice-monthly payments and for the housing element to be paid directly to the landlord. However, there were significant exceptions, and participants emphasised the importance of giving claimants choice over key aspects of their UC claim. The participants were unified in their view that UC should operate in the same way throughout the UK.

The Devolved Conversations also demonstrated significant similarities in experiences of UC across the UK. Despite the devolution of some aspects of UC delivery in Northern Ireland, participants across the UK encountered difficulties with obtaining vital information. Participants from all countries experienced inadequate UC payments, disincentives to enter, and progress in, paid work, and feelings of shame, stigma, and fear when interacting with the UC system.

Participant recommendations for improving UC across the UK include:

• Allow claimants to choose whether they receive their UC award monthly or twice monthly and whether the housing element is paid directly to their landlord or included within their UC award
• Guarantee a minimum level of income through UC that enables individuals and families to meet basic needs
• Provide accessible information regarding the full range of benefits and additional support a claimant may be entitled to
• Take meaningful steps to ensure that all interactions with the Department for Work and Pensions/Department for Communities are grounded in dignity and respect
• Improve work incentives by reducing the taper rate, raising the level of the work allowance, and expanding eligibility for the work allowance