The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced a change for thousands of parents on Universal Credit that will see them supported to increase their chances of getting a job.

As part of the change, parents of 3 to 12-year-olds will agree with their work coach to spend more time in work or applying for jobs, up to a maximum of 30 hours a week.

Commitments will be tailored to parents’ personal circumstances, including the availability of childcare. Alongside local Jobcentre support, this action could include time updating CVs or developing skills through courses and workshops.

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Mel Stride MP said: “We are pulling down barriers that stop parents working and fulfilling their potential, because we know full time work not only benefits mum and dad but the whole family too.

“These changes will support thousands on their back to work journey. We’re backing working families, and as they step up for their careers, we are taking action to halve inflation, grow the economy and make everyone’s money go further.”

It comes after the Government boosted childcare support for low-income families earlier this year.

Families with one child are now able to claim £951, up from £646, while those with two or more are able to claim £1,630, up from £1,108.

The Government also announced it will help eligible parents cover the costs for the first month’s childcare when they enter work or significantly increase their hours, removing one of the most significant barriers to parents working and helping to grow the economy.

Those parents will also receive up to 85% of their childcare costs back before their next month’s bills are due – meaning they should have money to pay one month in advance going forward.

The DWP estimates the changes will help more than half a million people across the country.