A NEW benefit system for unemployed people in Bradford will be rolled out later this year.

Universal Credit, the single payment benefit for people out of work or on a low income, will start in Bradford district from Monday, November 30.

This benefit replaces a host of benefits for working age people, including income-based Jobseekers' Allowance, Income Support, Housing Benefit and Working and Child Tax Credits.

Universal Credit will only initially apply to new applicants who are single and with no dependent children.

The new welfare payment system will be introduced in stages up until 2017 when it will be available to the majority of working age low-income residents.

Claimants are expected to receive a similar amount of money under Universal Credit as they get from the existing system, but the new benefit will be paid monthly and directly into a bank, building society or credit union account.

Bradford Council is working with Jobcentre Plus and partner agencies including social housing provider Incommunities to ensure advice and support is available for people applying for the new benefits.

Officers will help residents complete online application forms, provide computer and internet access, and offer budgeting advice to assist claimants to better manage their funds.

Councillor David Green, leader of Bradford Council, says Universal Credit is a major overhaul of the previous benefits system and said work was being carried out to avoid teething problems for recipients.

He said: "Experience shows that problems frequently arise when introducing new benefits.

"Universal Credit represents a major overhaul of the old system and we will be working with our partners to ensure people's transition is as smooth and stress-free as possible."

In the build-up to the introduction of Universal Credit, Incommunities has held area pilots across the district to see how prepared people are for the change and also what assistance they may require.

Dave Dickens, director of Incommunities - income management, said: "Universal Credit represents a big change for thousands of working age residents in the district.

"In anticipation of its introduction we have been running area pilots to give us a clearer picture of how prepared people might be and identify where they may need help.

"Working with our partners including Bradford Council we are committed to doing all we can to ensure residents are get ready for its introduction.

"If any Incommunities customers would like to discuss how Universal Credit might affect them please ring our Income Team on 01274 254777."

For more information on Universal Credit, go to gov.uk/universal-credit.