Perhaps in response to the open letter sent by charities to the Sec' of State for Work and Pensions calling for more safeguarding and support for vulnerable people being migrated onto universal credit, the Govt has published guidance for those who are helping/supporting people who need help with their benefits claim.

The person providing help and support to a claimant will need to prove a "genuine connection" between themselves and the claimant such as a family member or friend or as part of a person's job such as social worker, nurse/doctor or someone who works for an advice or welfare rights organisation.

The guidance states what information can be asked for and/or given and contact links relevant to which benefit the claimant is currently receiving (for example: disability benefits, pensions, child benefit and tax credits).