Thousands of households across the UK receiving Universal Credit or other Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) benefits could be eligible for a significant financial boost this Christmas, with a combination of payments and discounts potentially worth up to £8,297. This support is designed to help with essential living costs during the winter months and the festive period.
Essential Winter and Festive Support Payments
A primary source of immediate help is the Household Support Fund, administered by local councils. This scheme can provide up to £300 to help with essentials like energy bills, food, and water costs. Crucially, you do not need to be on benefits to apply, and any payment received will not affect your existing benefit claims.
For those struggling with Council Tax, a Council Tax Reduction could save households an average of £2,100. The amount depends on your income and circumstances, and you must apply directly to your council as it is not granted automatically. In specific cases, such as for those classed as severely mentally impaired, a 100% discount may be available.
Energy debt is another major concern. The British Gas Energy Support Fund offers grants of up to £2,000 to its customers to clear arrears. Furthermore, the Individuals and Families Fund provides up to £1,700 for customers of other suppliers if their provider lacks a similar scheme.
Smaller but Significant Contributions
The DWP also distributes a tax-free £10 Christmas Bonus to people on certain benefits, including Pension Credit and Personal Independence Payment (PIP). This payment is usually automatic for eligible claimants.
During periods of severe cold, the Cold Weather Payment£25 payment for each seven-day period where temperatures are at or below zero. This runs from 1 November to 31 March.
Longer-Term Savings and Health Grants
Beyond immediate cash, significant savings are available on essential services. Universal Credit claimants can access free NHS eye tests and vouchers worth up to £233 for glasses or contact lenses.
For families, the Sure Start Maternity Grant provides £500 for a first child or if you're expecting twins. Child Benefit pays £26.05 weekly for an eldest or only child, amounting to over £1,300 a year, with additional children receiving £17.25 per week.
The Healthy Start scheme offers prepaid cards for milk, fruit, and vegetables to pregnant women and those with children under four, providing support worth up to £442 annually.
Discounts on Bills and Connectivity
The Warm Home Discount Scheme provides a one-off £150 discount on electricity bills for eligible households, typically applied automatically by your supplier.
To help with communication costs, social tariffs for broadband and mobile are available for those on benefits, potentially saving households around £196 per year.
With the cumulative value of these various supports reaching into the thousands, experts are urging all those on low incomes or receiving benefits to check their eligibility for the full range of assistance available to them this winter.
