•If you come under the universal credit (UC) system, to qualify for UC, contribution-based jobseeker’s allowance or contributory employment and support allowance, you must usually accept a ‘claimant commitment’.

•There are work-related requirements, some or all of which you may have to meet. These are: work-focused interviews, work preparation, work search and work availability.

•If you do not meet the work-related requirements which apply to you, you may be given a sanction. Your benefit is then paid at a reduced (or nil) rate. However, you may qualify for UC hardship payments (see Chapter 52).