Q&A: Universal Credit and the benefits overhaul

The government wants more people to be off benefits

The Northern Ireland Assembly is debating the Welfare Reform Bill which is set to mark the biggest overhaul of the benefits system since the 1940s.

It will bring in a single, Universal Credit to replace six income-related, work-based benefits and has already been passed for England and Wales.

What are the reasons given for the changes and what does it mean for the people of Northern Ireland?

What is the idea behind this?

What is the issue with the system at present?

What is the Universal Credit?

There are concerns that housing benefits will be cut

What will happen to housing?

What will happen to the Disability Allowance?

What are the pitfalls?

Stormont politicians are to negotiate with the Treasury

What are the increased sanctions?

Does Northern Ireland have to adopt the reform?