In the UK’s Spring Statement 2025, the government confirmed plans to cut the Health Element of Universal Credit. Specifically:
- The Limited Capability for Work-Related Activity (LCWRA) premium—worth £416.19 per month—is being reduced for new claimants.
- This cut takes effect from April 2026.
- Existing claimants will keep their full entitlement to the LCWRA for now, meaning those already receiving the benefit will not immediately lose the £416.19.
Who Is Affected & Who’s Protected
| Group | Affected? | What Happens | Notes on Protection / Exemption |
|---|---|---|---|
| New UC claimants with LCWRA | Yes | Will receive a reduced health element; loss of £416.19/month compared to current rate. | New rules apply from April 2026; existing claimants get protected status. |
| Existing LCWRA recipients | No (for now) | Continue to get the current level of health element including £416.19/month. | The government has promised protection for them under the current scheme. |
| Optional protection or higher support | Partial / uncertain | Some people with severe, lifelong disabilities or exceptional cases may get additional premiums. | But eligibility can be more stringent. |
| Other UC claimants, or non-Health Element recipients | No direct loss of £416 element if they don’t have LCWRA | But broader reform may affect eligibility, assessment, etc. | Must watch future policy changes. |
Why the Government Is Doing This
- The cuts are part of a broader welfare reform aiming to reduce public spending on benefits. The government says the system is becoming financially unsustainable.
- The health-related element in Universal Credit has been under scrutiny for being considered overly generous by some, and there’s political pressure to encourage those able to work back into employment.
- There are also projections about saving £5 billion through changes to Universal Credit and PIP, though some of this has already been scaled back.
Key Dates & Deadlines
| Date | What Happens |
|---|---|
| April 2026 | The cut for new claimants to LCWRA comes into effect. |
| Now until April 2026 | Important period for existing claimants — might consider applying or making sure claims/condition assessments are properly documented. |
| Spring / Budget periods | Further policy detail and potential adjustments could be announced. Keep an eye on future Statements. |
What Families Need to Do Before It’s Too Late
- Check if you are a current or new claimant
If you already have LCWRA, you are protected under existing terms — but any change of circumstance, renewal, or reassessment might affect your status. If you’re considering a new claim, be aware of the changes. - Gather and maintain medical or health documentation
Because future assessments and eligibility may be tightened, keeping up-to-date medical records, reports, and evidence of long-term disabling conditions will help. - Seek expert advice
Organisations such as Citizens Advice, Scope, or local welfare rights groups can help you to understand your rights, prepare for appeals, and check whether you might qualify for extra support or exemptions. - Plan finances ahead
If your income may reduce, start budgeting now: identify fixed costs, possible support from local government, apply early for hardship or crisis funds, or look for any eligible one-off grants. - Monitor policy changes
Government proposals can change. There has already been a partial U-turn in some benefit reforms due to public and internal pressure. Stay informed via official channels.
Potential Risks & Broader Impacts
- Households newly applying for UC with LCWRA may lose £416.19/month, which can significantly impact families already facing tight budgets and high cost of living.
- May lead to increased poverty among disabled people who rely on this extra benefit. Projections suggest major welfare cut proposals could put many into relative or absolute poverty.
- Charitable organisations, local councils, and social services may see increased demand for emergency support, food banks, housing help, etc.
- There is political controversy: some reforms have been ruled unlawful by courts for misleading consultations, especially around how many and which disabled people would be affected.
The confirmed £416.19 monthly cut to the Health Element (LCWRA) of Universal Credit for new claimants marks a major change in welfare policy in the UK. While those already receiving the benefit are protected for now, this reform is poised to affect many vulnerable households from April 2026 onward.
Families must act now: understand whether you are protected, ensure your medical evidence and documentation are solid, explore local support, and stay aware of policy adjustments and potential legal developments. With careful planning and early action, you can reduce the impact of this change.
FAQs
If I currently receive LCWRA, will I lose the £416.19 health premium?
No — existing claimants are protected under the current rules. The cut applies only to new claimants from April 2026.
What can new claimants expect in terms of the Health Element under UC after the cuts?
New claimants will receive a reduced health/LCWRA premium — the £416.19/month will no longer apply in full. The exact replacement value depends on which new rules the government finalises.
Can I challenge or appeal a decision if I’m denied the full health element?
es. You can request a Mandatory Reconsideration, and if that fails, proceed to a tribunal. It helps to have medical evidence, supporting documents, and, if possible, legal or advisory-support. Also check whether you qualify for protection or other discretionary payments.
