Universal Credit recipients in the UK may be entitled to more than just monthly payments. A broader system of support exists, touching various aspects of everyday life. According to GB News, many households are unaware of the full scope of assistance potentially available to them—some of which extend even beyond benefit claimants.
Broad Spectrum of Financial Relief Across Key Living Expenses
Multiple forms of support are available, spanning everyday costs such as broadband, mobile contracts, energy bills, and council tax. Additional schemes assist with childcare, food, healthcare, and transport, reflecting a coordinated effort to address the high cost of living in the UK.
The available help covers numerous aspects of daily life, from utility bills to food costs, offering significant savings for families on low incomes. These schemes aim to provide vital assistance during increasingly challenging financial periods.
Communications Discounts Through Social Tariffs
Claimants can access broadband social tariffs, potentially saving around £170 per year. These rates are available from providers at prices as low as £12.50 per month, compared to the average national broadband cost of £26.90.
Similar savings apply to mobile contracts, with offers such as O2’s Essentials plan at £10 per month compared to the UK average of £27 per month. This could result in an estimated annual saving of £200.
Council Tax Reductions and Energy Bill Assistance
Eligible households may receive up to £2,280 in Council Tax Support, depending on their income and the policies of their local authority. In many cases, council tax bills can be significantly reduced or even eliminated.
Several energy providers offer direct help through hardship funds. The British Gas Energy Support Fund, for example, offers grants of up to £2,000 for households in need.
Household Support Fund and Maternity Payments
The UK Government’s Household Support Fund, worth £742 million, is distributed to local authorities in England to help vulnerable residents. This support can cover a wide range of needs, with typical household assistance estimated around £200.
New or expectant parents may also qualify for the Sure Start Maternity Grant, a one-off payment of £500 to help cover the initial cost of having a child.
Generous Childcare and School-Related Support
Families on Universal Credit can claim up to 85% of childcare costs, capped at £1,031.88 per month for one child and £1,768.94 for two or more children.
Children in eligible households can also receive free school meals, which are valued at around £460 per year per child. During school holidays, qualifying families may receive up to £15 per week per child, equating to £195 over 13 weeks. The combined value could reach approximately £655 per child annually.
Lower Water and Healthcare Costs for Qualifying Households
The WaterSure scheme supports families with high water usage—such as large households or those with medical needs—by capping annual bills. Anglian Water, for instance, offers a WaterSure rate of £310 per year, compared to the average bill of £626. This represents a saving of up to £316 annually.
Free NHS prescriptions are also available to many on Universal Credit or other benefits, potentially saving £118.80 per year for those who would otherwise pay for a monthly prescription.
Transport Savings and Incentives to Save
The Jobcentre Plus Travel Discount Card provides 50% off rail fares for eligible claimants who are actively seeking work, significantly easing transport costs during a period of job search.
The Help to Save scheme rewards savers on low incomes with a 50% bonus. Over four years, users can save up to £2,400 and receive a government bonus of £1,200.
Food and Fitness Support for Families
The Healthy Start scheme offers pregnant individuals and families with young children up to £442 per year in free food vouchers for essentials such as milk, fruit, and infant formula.
Several providers also offer discounted gym memberships for Universal Credit claimants, with monthly rates starting as low as £5. This compares to standard membership rates around £25 per month, resulting in potential annual savings of £240.
