The Welfare Reform Act 2012 introduced major changes to the welfare system. Its primary goals were to streamline benefits, encourage employment, and reduce dependency on government assistance. The Act represented one of the most substantial overhauls of the UK social security system in recent years.
The Act aimed to simplify the benefits system, improve work incentives, tackle poverty and dependency, and ultimately reduce expenditure on welfare. It introduced several key changes, including the consolidation of several benefits into a single payment and the implementation of measures intended to encourage welfare recipients to seek employment. The Act brought about profound changes to the social security landscape in the UK, impacting a wide range of individuals and businesses.
The Welfare Reform Act 2012 is currently in force. Its implementation continues to evolve, particularly in response to feedback and challenges related to the rollout of Universal Credit and other measures. Ongoing adjustments and reforms are likely as the government addresses operational issues and the changing economic landscape.