
An update from Ian Mitchell, Partnership Manager - Salford, Trafford and Manchester; Department of Work and Pensions:
During these unprecedented times DWP needs your help to ensure we provide our customers with the fastest and safest service.
There have been a number of changes to the way people claim benefits and we would be grateful if you would advise any of your customers & employees who may be considering making a claim for Universal Credit, Employment & Support Allowance or Jobseekers Allowance to make a claim online in the first instance. Please DO NOT ask them to attend their local Jobcentre.
Whilst Jobcentres remain open they may have significantly reduced staffing and their priority will be to support people who are not able to use telephone and online services, and to process benefit payments. Additionally, people already receiving benefits do not have to attend any Jobcentre appointments for at least 3 months, starting from Thursday 19 March 2020. People will continue to receive their benefits as normal but all requirements to attend the Jobcentre in person are suspended.
As announced today, Jobcentres will now be closed to members of the public, other than the most vulnerable cases.
Customers who require a Voucher for the ‘Payment Exception Service’ will be allowed in the Jobcentre by exception.