Research and analysis

Universal Credit: In-Work Progression support research

This report presents the findings from the evaluation of in-work progression (IWP) support for Universal Credit (UC) claimants.

• From: Department for Work and Pensions
• Published: 26 February 2026

Applies to England, Scotland and Wales

Documents

Universal Credit: In-Work Progression support research

Ref: ISBN 978-1-78659-952-0, RR1126

HTML

Universal Credit: In-Work Progression support research

Ref: ISBN 978-1-78659-952-0, RR1126

PDF, 1.12 MB, 178 pages

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Details

Research background

Funding was allocated in the 2021 Spending Review to extend Jobcentre Plus support to help more working people claiming Universal Credit (UC) progress once in work. A voluntary offer was set up for UC claimants which was available across Great Britain from April 2023 to the end of March 2025.

While the in-work progression (IWP) voluntary offer was available, the Administrative Earnings Threshold (AET) was increased three times. These changes meant that more working UC claimants were subject to conditions including more intensive support as part of their claim.

We carried out this research as part of an evaluation of the department’s in-work support within the IWP voluntary offer, and as part of mandatory support for UC claimants whose earnings are below the AET.

Contribution to the evidence base

We carried out this project as part of a wider evaluation to understand the impact of the IWP voluntary offer and the AET changes. We commissioned separate research with Jobcentre Plus staff that was completed over the same period.

Research value

Findings from this research were used to improve support for working UC claimants, including offering 8-weekly progression-focused appointments to those with earnings below the AET.

Progression is identified in the Get Britain Working white paper as a key pillar of the Jobs and Careers Service; research findings will be used to design an effective progression support offer and extend the offer to more working individuals.

Published 26 February 2026