UC Health Element changes from April 2026
From 6 April 2026, the LCWRA (Limited Capability for Work-Related Activity) element in Universal Credit will be drastically cut and frozen for the vast majority of new claimants. Some people will be protected and will continue to receive the LCWRA element at a higher rate. This half-day course looks at who is protected and how we can help people get the higher rate when they are eligible.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the course participants will:
• Know who is affected by the cut to the LCWRA element and who is protected
• Understand which UC claimants will have ‘pre-2026’ status and the time limits involved
• Be familiar with the new ‘severe conditions criteria’
• Have an awareness of the decision-making process and how to tackle anticipated problems
Methods of delivery
This course is delivered online live with a BTC trainer. It is a practical course delivered using a combination of trainer presentation, exercises and case studies, group discussion and games. Participants will be provided with e-learning supporting material including PowerPoint slide handouts, a comprehensive training pack pdf and additional resources. There is a 15 minute break halfway through the course.
Who should attend?
Welfare rights advisers, support workers, case managers, and anyone helping people affected by a health condition or disability with Universal Credit. This course is at an update level and a working knowledge of Universal Credit is assumed.
Certificates & post course support
Participants will receive an e-certificate for completing both Parts 1&2 (6 hours) of any complete BTC course. This also guarantees eligibility to access our free 12 months post-course advice service (including priority entry to free webinars).
Course instructions
This online course is run over Zoom. In the week before the course, you will receive an email with Zoom link(s) and access the supporting materials. You will need to download (or print) the pack (and slides, if you wish) before each part of the course, unless you have selected a printed pack when booking.
Participants will need a good wifi connection and a suitable computer/laptop to access both the Zoom session and the pack throughout. You may wish to use a separate device for the pack (or split your screen) if you cannot or do not wish to print. We recommend participants log in a few minutes beforehand. You may also wish to have a pen and paper handy to make notes.