New figures show that Universal Credit (UC) claimant rates in Wells and Shepton Mallet are well below the national average, as the government unveils sweeping welfare reforms.

In Wells and Mendip Hills, 12.9% of people claim UC, compared to the UK average of 18.4%, while 16.5% of households receive the benefit, compared to 25.2% nationally.

Neighbouring Glastonbury and Somerton has slightly higher figures, with 14.4% of individuals and 17.9% of households on UC, but both areas remain significantly below the national levels.

The figures have been released as the government announces plans to merge Jobseeker's Allowance and Employment and Support Allowance into Universal Credit, in what it calls a "moral and economic case" for reform.

Speaking in the House of Commons, Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall said the government is taking "decisive action" to fix the system and ensure it supports those who need it while encouraging those who can work to do so.

Key changes include:

• Scrapping the Work Capability Assessment (WCA) for UC claimants from 2028
• Increasing the standard UC allowance by £775 in 2029/30
• Introducing a new "right to try" scheme, which allows people to return to work without losing their benefits if they struggle
• Ensuring Personal Independence Payments (PIP) remain unchanged, following backlash over proposals to freeze them

Ms Kendall told MPs: "Under this Government, the social security system will always be there for people in genuine need. That is a principle we will never compromise on. But disabled people and people with health conditions who can work should have the same rights, choices, and chances to work as everybody else."

She added that many claimants "want to work with the right help and support", and the new system will provide "real opportunities" for them to do so.

However, the changes have sparked debate, particularly over the removal of the WCA, which currently determines whether people are fit to work. Critics argue that this could make it harder for those with serious health conditions to access long-term support.

Nationally, the highest UC claimant rates are in Birmingham Perry Barr, where 64.2% of households claim UC, and Bradford West, where 57.1% of homes are on the benefit.

In contrast, Wells, Shepton Mallet, and Glastonbury have much lower figures, suggesting a smaller proportion of residents depend on the welfare system. However, with significant reforms on the horizon, local claimants may still be affected by upcoming changes to how benefits are assessed and distributed.