2013 - Universal Credit Project Undermined by Government

Karen Weston comments on the Major Projects Authority's report.

The 2013 report published by the Major Projects Authority, aimed at an open assessment of the Government’s most expensive projects, is the first Government admission that the Universal Credit Programme, due for full implementation in the autumn of 2013, is in trouble.

 The report classifies the Universal Credit Programme amber/red.  A classification which indicates;

 “Successful delivery of the project/programme is in doubt with major risks or issues apparent in a number of key areas. Urgent action is needed to ensure these are addressed, and whether resolution is feasible”

 The report content has been refuted by Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) who state that the information that the report is based upon is outdated, having been gathered in September 2012, and that the project is now on target.

 Contrast this to the reality;

 ·        The Pathfinder trial implementation which commenced in April 2013 was scaled back from four jobcentres to one jobcentre

·         Only single people who are available for work are able to participate in the trial

·         The other three jobcentres will join the trial in July 2013

·         There are rumoured problems with the system computer security

·          New claim rollout is due to commence in October 2012 with all claimant categories due to be able to make new claims to Universal Credit from that date

·         Full migration from the six legacy benefits is due to be completed by 2017

One glimmer of hope is the new acquisition of Howard Shiplee who will join DWP in mid-May as lead on the delivery of Universal Credit.  Mr Shiplee was the former Director of Construction for the London 2012 Olympics.  The Olympic Park is a great testament to his former work – however, I am left wondering if even he can perform a miracle in 4 months or whether, as I suspect, we will see further scaling back on the project delivery targets.

Watch this space ……………..