Centrepoint's campaign to Make Work Pay

If you work more hours, you should be better off. But this isn’t the case for more than 30,000 young people who have experienced homelessness. Because of a long-standing flaw in the system, the moment they work more hours, vital benefits are stripped away – often leaving them worse-off for trying to find their independence.

Centrepoint’s Make Work Pay campaign launched in September 2024, campaigning for an end to the benefit trap for young people living in supported housing. It went on to successfully secure national policy change in November 2025.

By combining a clear policy ask with a strong focus on human impact, the campaign mobilised over 11,400 supporters, with more than 17,000 people contacting the Chancellor and 10,800 writing to their MP. It secured backing from over 150 organisations and major businesses, alongside widespread national media coverage.

Lived experience was central throughout, with young people shaping the campaign and speaking directly to decision-makers. Creative moments, including a high-profile Westminster stunt, helped make a complex issue accessible and engaging, whilst maintaining political engagement through over 21 parliamentary questions from MPs and policy briefings.

In the 2025 Budget, the Government committed to reforming Universal Credit policy, delivering the campaign’s core aim. This change is expected to improve the working lives of over 30,000 young people, enabling them to increase hours, access employment and move towards independent living. By combining evidence, digital mobilisation and storytelling, the campaign drove lasting change and ensured work pays for young people in supported housing.