“The Government already provides some support through the flexible support fund where, through the Job Centre, DWP may pay the first month through the fund. It should consider making this support for streamlined easier to access. It could mitigate fraud by paying this first payment directly to the childcare provider.”
One thing under consideration by ministers is a “nudge” campaign which would see the DWP contact people who fall into this category to speak with them about possible getting into work. “The Government should look at extending work allowances to second earners. If you a single person or the first person in the family to go into work you can earn up to £573 per month without losing any benefits,” Mr Handscomb said.
One proposal being considered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is whether the system for childcare payments could be changed to stop families being left in arrears