Are there enough routes back into work for people on universal credit?

One key government ambition is to overhaul the welfare system so people who are able to work are helped into employment.

But this goal relies on one key factor - the availability of good-quality jobs.

And for many people, these are nowhere to be found.

According to the New Economics Foundation (NEF), regions with the highest number of people claiming universal credit have a shortage of good-quality jobs.

So people either have to face sanctions or take roles that offer:

• low pay
• poor job security
• little chance of career progression

The NEF said this is “counterproductive”, because they’re less likely get good-quality, long-term employment, and more likely to end up out of work again.

And that, in turn, would mean they have to keep relying on the benefits system.

“Employment support needs to be aligned with the reality of local labour markets and encourage people into jobs that offer genuine security and progression,” said NEF senior economist Max Mosley.

High-demand jobs don’t always require experience or a degree

If you’re looking to switch jobs or re-enter the workforce, there are many high-demand jobs that don’t require academic qualifications or previous experience.

We’ve put together a list of some of the fastest-growing roles across the UK and how to get started.

Find out what benefits you can claim

You may be entitled to more support than you realise.

So it’s also worth making sure you’re getting all the help you might be eligible for.

We can check you’re getting all the benefits you’re entitled to.

So get in touch or try our benefits calculator to see what you could receive.

With bills soaring and the cost of living continuing to rise, financial support like universal credit can be a vital lifeline for working households on low or moderate incomes.