DWP update on what PIP and Universal Credit claimants should do if they are hospitalised this winter

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

Millions of benefit claimants could see their payments reduced if they fail to notify the government when spending time in hospital this winter.

But this problem could be made easier in the future as the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed it is in the process of creating a new 'digital channel' to make it easier to report any changes for those receiving disability benefits, other low-income benefits, and the State Pension.

However, Minister for Social Security and Disabilities, Sir Stephen Timms, has indicated that this development is "not expected to be complete for at least another 12 months" and will not include Universal Credit claimants, who currently use an online journal to communicate with their work coaches and the DWP.

The update came following a query by Conservative MP Neil O'Brien on whether claimants could report hospital stays via phone or a system akin to 'Tell Us Once'.