As the cost of living crisis continues, families on low incomes feeling the squeeze are encouraged to claim all the benefits and discounts they may be eligible for. Universal Credit and other state benefit claimants are set to receive a 10.1 percent boost in their benefit payments from April this year.
Elsewhere from this boost, there are 10 ways that Universal Credit claimants could save some money to put towards rising bills.
Food vouchers for kids as part of the Healthy Start scheme
The Healthy Start scheme offers funds worth £4.25 per week to pregnant women and young children who are in low-income families.
The state-backed scheme helps low-income families with small children up to age four pay for milk, vegetables, fruit, pulses and vitamins by providing them with a pre-paid card.
Cheap travel
Universal Credit claimants could get 50 percent off their bus and train fares with the Jobcentre Plus travel card.
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However, it’s only available if they’re unemployed but looking for work and are on Jobseeker’s Allowance.
Free cash for school uniforms
The local council could provide help with the cost of school uniform and PE kit for children.
The amount can vary depending on where someone lives.
Discount on council tax
Households on a low income can get a deduction on their council tax, and sometimes have it wiped completely.
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They will have to contact their local authority to find out what discount they’re entitled to.
Britons can find out more via the Government’s website.
Free school meals
If someone is claiming certain benefits, including Universal Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) and Child Tax Credits, they can get free school meals for their children.
Free or cheap broadband
A number of broadband providers offer cheap deals for those on certain benefits called social tariffs.
It’s definitely worth shopping around for the best deals on price comparison websites like Uswitch or Money Supermarket.
All the providers offer something slightly different.
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People can easily see if they can get free prescriptions using the Government’s eligibility checker.
Free or discounted gym membership
Some councils offer discounted gym memberships to people on benefits, although discounts vary depending on where someone lives.
Cold Weather Payment scheme
Britons may qualify for a Cold Weather Payment if they’re getting certain benefits or Support for Mortgage Interest.
They’ll get a payment if the average temperature in their area is recorded as, or forecast to be, zero degrees celsius or below over seven consecutive days.
Claimants get £25 for each seven day period of very cold weather between November 1 and March 31.
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