New figures reveal that Universal Credit (UC) claimant rates in Glastonbury and Street remain significantly lower than the national average, as the government announces major changes to the benefits system.

In the Glastonbury and Somerton parliamentary constituency, 14.4% of people claim UC, compared to the UK average of 18.4%. The proportion of households claiming UC is also lower, at 17.9%, compared to 25.2% nationwide.

Neighbouring Wells and Mendip Hills has even lower rates, with 12.9% of people and 16.5% of households on UC. While these figures suggest a lower dependence on UC in the area compared to many parts of the country, the government's proposed reforms could still have a significant impact on local claimants.

The government has framed the changes as part of a "moral and economic case" for an overhaul, with Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall telling MPs that the system needs "decisive action" to be fairer and more effective. She described the plans as a "more proactive, pro-work system", designed to support those who can work while protecting those who cannot.

Among the key changes announced in the government's Pathways to Work green paper are:

• Merging Jobseeker's Allowance and Employment and Support Allowance into Universal Credit
• Scrapping the Work Capability Assessment (WCA) for UC claimants from 2028, shifting to a system where medical professionals assess a person's ability to work
• Raising the standard UC allowance by £775 in 2029/30
• Introducing a new "right to try" initiative, allowing claimants to attempt to return to work without immediately losing benefits if they struggle to cope

Ms Kendall told the House of Commons: "Under this Government, the social security system will always be there for people in genuine need. That is a principle we will never compromise on. But disabled people and people with health conditions who can work should have the same rights, choices, and chances to work as everybody else."

She added that many sick and disabled people "want to work with the right help and support", and that the government was committed to delivering that.

Despite these reassurances, the reforms have faced criticism, with concerns that removing the WCA could make it harder for disabled and seriously ill people to access the support they need. Labour MPs pushed back against initial suggestions that Personal Independence Payments (PIP) could be frozen, forcing the government to confirm that PIP would remain unchanged.

Nationally, the areas with the highest rates of UC claimants include Birmingham Perry Barr, where 64.2% of all households claim UC, and Bradford West, where 57.1% of homes are on the benefit.

In contrast, the lower rates in Glastonbury, Somerton, and neighbouring Wells and Shepton Mallet suggest a smaller proportion of local residents rely on the welfare system. However, with major changes ahead, local claimants may still see an impact on their financial support in the coming years.