Universal Credit & ESA: DWP urges claims to be made in this way during coronavirus crisis

Today, the DWP has taken unprecedented action to make sure people can get the support they need, with this including moving 10,000 existing staff to focus on processing new claims.

In line with recent Government guidance, and an effort to best serve those who need support, the Work and Pensions Secretary has taken the decision to limit access to jobcentres from tomorrow.

It will mean members of the public will not be admitted into jobcentres unless they are directed to do so with a booked appointment.

Under these measures, only the most vulnerable claimants who cannot access DWP services by other channels will be invited to attend.

READ MORE: Martin Lewis: Vital lockdown advice for employees who can’t work from home

However, Work and Pensions Secretary Therese Coffey is urging people to use online services first, in an effort to help keep phone lines free for those who are in great deal of need for them.

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Therese Coffey said: “Our jobcentres are fully committed to supporting people facing challenges during these extraordinary times.

“To help people most effectively and efficiently, we need people to claim online.

“If you cannot get online, phone us for help and we will only see people face to face in our jobcentres if invited.”