CAMPAIGNERS slammed the government for pushing single mothers and others on razor-thin margins into deeper financial instability with drastic benefit overhauls.

Under new rules implemented today, universal credit claimants earning less than £892 will be expected to search for more, or better paid, work. Failure to do so could risk them losing their benefits altogether.

The threshold has risen sharply from £617 for individuals, and £988 for couples, who are now expected to take home at least £1,437. 

This means that those working less than 18 hours a week on minimum wage will now be required to look for more work.

Those working less than half of a full-time week will have to meet their work coach more frequently to boost their earnings, or risk being penalised.

According to the Department for Work and Pensions, the change will apply to some 180,000 people.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said that “welfare should always be a safety net and not a lifestyle choice” and claimed the changes “will help more people on universal credit move into well-paid jobs and progress towards financial independence.”

But Michael Clarke, head of information programmes at anti-poverty charity Turn2us, said the threshold rises “severely challenge” those managing jobs with irregular or fluctuating incomes and carefully balanced responsibilities like childcare. 

“The system fails to accommodate the reality of those on the financial edge,” he said.

“For single mothers and others on razor-thin margins, these adjustments risk tipping them into crisis, exacerbating financial insecurity and mental stress as they struggle to meet the new demands.

“It’s vital that the support system truly supports, rather than penalises those it’s meant to help.”

Last month, Mr Sunak announced a raft of new welfare reforms.

Among them was a review into personal independent payment (PIP), a non means-tested benefit that helps with extra costs caused by long-term disability or ill health.

Mr Sunak vowed to curb the number of those with mental health conditions claiming PIP and said a more “rigorous” approach will be introduced. He has been accused by campaigners of launching a “full-on assault” on disabled people.