Universal Credit supports those who are out of work, unable to work or on a low income, and is overseen by the DWP. However, it has provided a particular lifeline to those who are on the hunt for a job, a circumstance which has been made more challenging due to the ongoing pandemic. While a Universal Credit payment can help with the cost of day-to-day life, it is other perhaps unexpected costs which may prove more difficult to cover.
Universal Credit claimants, though, are not the only people who may be eligible for this fund.
The charity Turn2Us explains qualifying benefits for FSF also include:
- Pension Credit
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income Support
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Carer’s Allowance
FSF can also assist those who are eligible for Work Preparation Support, such as single parents, partners and carers.
At present, there is no set amount a person can expect to receive if they are granted FSF.
Stephen Tanfield, a DWP work coach based in Aylesbury, Bucks, said: “We can still help after you’ve got an interview or a job.
“The Flexible Support Fund has been a real help for some of my customers.
“It’s things that people need to get them over the line, like travel costs or a new uniform.”
One example cited was Claire, a woman from Grimsby, who gained this tailored support to secure a role as a bus driver – her dream job.
She said: “I got a Flexible Support Fund for my interview clothes. I went out and got the clothes, gave them the receipt, and they gave me the money back.
“So that was really helpful. I bought my shirt, my trousers and my shoes and used them all the way through my training.”
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