Official Statistics

DWP abstract of DWP benefit rate statistics: user questionnaire

Updated 25 January 2022

Background

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is always looking to understand how its statistics are used and seek feedback from those who use our data. In line with DWP’s Statistical Work Programme, and as part of the DWP User Engagement Strategy, we are actively engaging with users to ensure our statistics remain relevant and useful.

The Abstract of DWP benefit rate statistics provides a reference source for people interested in benefit uprating and the value of benefits compared to prices and earnings.

The publication contains 2 sections: Uprating of Benefits and Rates of Benefit, which aim to provide data to answer questions such as:

  • How do the values of state benefits compare to prices?
  • Are state benefits today, worth more or less in terms of Average Earnings than in previous years?
  • How does the income of an unemployed person compare with Average Earnings?
  • How do the rates of benefits compare with one another?

We want your feedback

Feedback can be provided, by emailing [email protected]

Please consider using this questionnaire to frame your answers. This will help us understand the way our statistics are being used and what users consider important.

Questions

Why do you use the Abstract?

1. Do you use the publication to help you in your work? If so what sort of work do you do?

2. Are you using this release to assist in research?

How do you use the Abstract?

3. Which areas of the abstract have you used? For example, written summary, data tables or background guidance.

4. What type of device do you typically use to access the abstract?

5. How easy did you find the information you needed in the abstract?

Suitability of the figures provided by the abstract

6. The abstract provides comparisons of the value of benefit rates against price inflation and earnings. Are the measures used in the abstract meeting your needs?

7. Thinking about the Retail Prices Index (RPI), do you have any specific views on the suitability of RPI as a comparison over time?

8. Do you have any other comments about the Abstract of Statistics publication?

We may contact you to discuss your response to this questionnaire. This may be to follow up on any specific points raised which we need to clarify. Is this okay?