THE Citizens' Advice Bureau in Okehampton has explained the newly introduced universal credit system and the effect that it will have on families in the town and across the area to the town's MP. In a recent report the CAB called for reforms to the system, with a focus on making extra work pay.  The CAB argues that as the system stands, people could potentially lose money through working an extra shift or longer hours where this triggers high childcare costs or significant travel to work expenses. Representatives from Torridge, North, Mid and West Devon explained the situation to Central Devon MP Mel Stride. Sarah Davies, the CAB Bureau manager from Torridge, North, Mid and West Devon said: 'It was good to meet with Mel and discuss the CAB's concerns with the new universal credit system. 'We would like to see the system made as fair as possible and designed to help the least well off the most.' Speaking after the meeting Mr Stride said: 'One of the main reasons the universal credit system is being introduced is so that it always pays to work. 'This will be ensured by not limiting the number of hours someone can work to receive tax credits and by reducing the payment gradually as the claimant earns more. 'There will no longer be a 'cliff' whereby a claimant would suddenly lose their benefits if they took an extra shift a week. I listened carefully to what the CAB had to say and will be taking them up with the Department for Work and Pensions.' The Universal Credit system is currently being rolled out across the country. At present its availability is restricted to a few places in the UK, a complete list of which can be found online at http://www.gov.uk/universal-credit ">www.gov.uk/universal-credit ; The Citizens' Advice Bureau's report on the proposed universal credit report can also be found online at http://www.citizensadvice.org.uk">www.citizensadvice.org.uk