Benefit cap encouraging some work-seeking

A survey conducted by Ipsos on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions has found that many of those currently affected by the benefit cap say they have been more encouraged to find work as a result of the policy.

Since becoming affected by the cap, two in five (40%) say that they have been ‘more encouraged’ to find paid work. In addition, while 25% of those currently affected by the policy said, unprompted, that they have looked for a job in response to the policy, this rose to 45% when asked about their plans to deal with the changes over the next 12 months.

The survey, undertaken in February, also found claimants reporting financial difficulties since becoming affected. A significant minority say they have spent less on household essentials in response to the policy (32%) or borrowed from family or friends to make up the shortfall (45%). Many reported being in arrears more frequently; two-thirds (67%) of those currently in arrears said that the amount they owe has increased since they became affected.

A follow-up survey planned for later this year will seek to establish how these responses develop in the longer term.

• Download topline data from the survey (PDF)
• Download the headline summary report (DWP website)

Technical note

Ipsos conducted a telephone survey among 1,200 people known to be affected by the benefit cap identified from the October 2013 Single Housing Benefit Extract (SHBE). A random sample of claimants known to be affected by the benefit cap at the time of the extract was selected. Results are based on a sample size of 1,060 respondents self-identified to be currently affected by the changes at the time of interview, and 140 respondents who said they are no longer affected. Fieldwork for the survey was conducted between Friday 7th and Wednesday 26th February 2014 inclusive. Results were weighted to the profile of affected claimants as per the October SHBE extract.