The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a warning to Universal Credit claimants that gambling winnings could lead to reduced or stopped benefits. The DWP counts these winnings as part of a person's capital, not earnings, and if the total savings exceed £6,000, payments could be slashed.  

This news comes just weeks after a Scottish man who won £80,000 on the National Lottery says he wants to go back on benefits because he is struggling to 'make ends meet’.

For those who lived through the 1980s, this news may evoke memories of a bygone era when the dole was a lifeline. 

In the UK, Universal Credit claimants are required to report any changes in their circumstances, including receiving gambling winnings. The DWP has clarified that these winnings do not count as earnings and will only be considered as part of a person's capital. 

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Wham Rap Reminiscent of Better Days for Young People 

As Wham! sang in their iconic song "Wham Rap!": "Do you want to work? No / Are you gonna have fun? Yeah", many young people in the 1980s enjoyed a carefree existence on the dole. The Department of Health and Social Security (DHSS) funded both Friday night clubbing and Sunday recovery.   

This generation of working-class youth would often receive a guaranteed fortnightly payment, which was used to treat themselves to aftershaves, suits, and other luxuries. 

Today, the DWP is cracking down on benefits claims, warning that failing to report gambling winnings or traveling abroad could result in reduced or stopped payments.  

Reduction or Elimination of JSA Possible Following General Election 

Claimants must notify the DWP if they plan to leave the country for more than four weeks, except in cases such as medical treatment or approved convalescence.  

Similarly, Personal Independence Payment (PIP) claimants must alert the DWP if they plan to leave the country for more than four weeks at a time. 

The UK government has also announced plans to reduce or eliminate Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) for young people under 25 if the Conservative Party wins the next election. Currently, JSA is set at £56.80 per week and is a vital lifeline for many young people who are constantly moving between low-paid jobs, training schemes, and unemployment.  

Warnings to be Aware of Rules Around Gambling Winnings 

In conclusion, Wham!'s iconic lyrics still ring true today: "Do you want to work? No / Are you gonna have fun? Yeah". 

For many young people in the 1980s, benefits were a way to enjoy their freedom and live life to the fullest. 

However, with the DWP cracking down on benefits claims, it's essential for claimants to be aware of the rules and regulations surrounding gambling winnings and travel abroad to avoid any penalties or sanctions. 

Bottom of Form 

We will leave the last words to George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley:  

“If you're a pub man 
Or a club man Maybe a jet black guy with a hip hi-fi 
A white cool cat with a trilby hat 
Maybe leather and studs is where you're at 
Make the most of every day 
Don't let hard times stand in your way 
Give a wham give a bam but don't give a damn 
Cos the benefit gang are (NOT) gonna pay!”