Hidden benefits: Counting the cost of extra welfare
17 March 2026, 6:15 pm – 7:15 pm
Location: Central Westminster
Think tank: Onward
This event hosted by UK think tank Onward explores the often overlooked additional schemes and freebies available to those on Universal Credit.
Following the release of our report, The Hidden Benefits Bill, this event will explore the often overlooked additional schemes and freebies available to those on Universal Credit.
We’ll discuss how today’s welfare system shapes work incentives and perceptions of personal responsibility, looking ahead to further expansions coming this year.
We’ll assess how additional benefit schemes affect claimants, taxpayers and consumers, and consider alternative ways to deliver better outcomes.
Speakers
Helen Whately MP – Shadow Secretary of State for Work and Pensions
Caroline Elsom – Caroline leads the Reshaping the State programme, focusing on reform of public services, including health, welfare and local government.
Sir Simon Clarke – Director. Sir Simon Clarke has served as Director of Onward since January 2025.
Fraser Nelson – Fraser Nelson is a columnist and was editor of The Spectator from 2009-2024. He started at The Times running errands for the business desk and wrote about his unlikely career for The Times magazine.
Lana Hempsall – Policy Fellow, Founder, Conservatives in Energy.
