Universal Credit Claimants: As the cost of living continues to impact families across the UK in 2025, many Universal Credit claimants are seeking additional help to manage rising expenses. Inflation, elevated energy bills, and food prices are putting added pressure on low-income households. To address these challenges, the government and local authorities have extended several support measures specifically for those on Universal Credit.
This article explores what extra help is currently available for Universal Credit claimants in 2025, including direct payments, energy support, housing aid, NHS cost relief, school-related grants, and more. If you or someone you know is on Universal Credit, understanding these benefits can help ease financial burdens this year.
Universal Credit Claimants: What Support Is Available in 2025?
For Universal Credit claimants, 2025 brings a range of support schemes aimed at easing day-to-day living costs. These include seasonal Cost of Living Payments, council tax relief, energy bill assistance, food and school support, and even help with healthcare and transport. Most of these benefits are either automatic or easily accessible through local councils or DWP channels.
By staying informed and applying where needed, claimants can access significant financial relief throughout the year.
Overview Table: Key 2025 Support for Universal Credit Claimants
| Support Type | Amount/Benefit | Eligibility | Application Needed |
| Cost of Living Payments | £300 (Spring), £260 (Summer), £400 (Winter) | On Universal Credit | No |
| Energy Bill Support | £1,900 cap + local energy grants | Low-income households | Varies by council |
| Household Support Fund | Food, rent, essential item support | Based on council criteria | Yes |
| Council Tax Rebates | Discount or hardship relief | Low-income households | Yes |
| Free School Meals | Free meals during term | UC families with children | Usually automatic |
| School Uniform Grants | Up to £150 per child | Low-income families | Yes |
| NHS Cost Support | Free prescriptions, dental/eye care | UC claimants or low income | Apply via HC1 form |
| Transport Discounts | 50% off rail fares | Job-seeking UC claimants | Yes (via Jobcentre) |
Updated Cost of Living Payments for 2025
In response to ongoing inflation, the UK government has announced a revised schedule for cost of living payments throughout 2025. These payments are automatic for those on Universal Credit, with no separate application needed.
Payment Schedule:
- Spring 2025: £300 (already issued in late March)
- Summer 2025: £260 (expected in July)
- Winter 2025: Up to £400, based on household composition
These tax-free payments aim to help with essential expenses like food, fuel, and rent. Eligibility is usually determined by receiving a qualifying benefit during a set assessment window.
Energy Bills Support in 2025
The Energy Price Guarantee remains in effect in May 2025, although the average annual cap has been adjusted. The new limit is:
- £1,900 per year for the average dual-fuel household
In addition to this, many councils are offering hardship grants through local schemes. These may cover one-time payments to assist with utility bills, emergency heating repairs, or insulation costs.
Tip: Contact your local council to see what’s available and whether you need to apply. Each council operates its own programme.
Household Support Fund Extension
The Household Support Fund has been extended until at least September 2025. Administered by local councils, this fund offers flexible help, including:
- Food vouchers for families with children
- Assistance with rent or mortgage arrears
- Support for purchasing essential appliances like fridges or cookers
Each council sets its own rules, so it’s important to visit your local authority’s website or speak to Citizens Advice for tailored guidance.
Council Tax Rebates and Discounts
Several councils continue to provide council tax rebates for struggling households. Two main forms of help are available in 2025:
- Council Tax Reduction Scheme: Adjusted for inflation and available in most areas
- Discretionary Relief: One-off rebates for those facing temporary financial difficulty
These can significantly reduce your monthly outgoings, but usually require a simple application or proof of hardship.
Free School Meals and School Uniform Support
Families receiving Universal Credit may qualify for free school meals for children in both primary and secondary school. These are usually renewed automatically each academic year.
Additional Help:
- School Uniform Grants: Some councils provide up to £150 per child for uniform costs before the start of the school year
This support ensures that children can return to school with the essentials, helping families avoid seasonal financial strain.
NHS Cost Help and Transport Discounts
Healthcare and transportation can also pose challenges for families on tight budgets. Universal Credit claimants may be eligible for:
- Free NHS prescriptions if their income is below a certain level
- Free or discounted dental and eye care under the NHS Low Income Scheme (apply via the HC1 form)
- 50% off rail travel with a Jobcentre Plus Travel Discount Card, available to claimants looking for work
These benefits are designed to improve accessibility and reduce barriers for lower-income households.
How to Stay Informed and Apply
To avoid missing out on any of these supports, Universal Credit claimants are advised to:
- Visit GOV.UK regularly for national updates
- Sign up for local council newsletters or alerts
- Use Citizens Advice for help with applications or benefit checks
- Keep benefit accounts (including UC journals) up to date
- Check eligibility for social broadband or mobile tariffs via service providers
Many local councils now offer online application portals for support funds, which can make the process faster and easier.
FAQs on Universal Credit Support in 2025
1. What if I didn’t receive my Spring 2025 cost of living payment?
Check your Universal Credit journal to confirm your benefit status during the assessment period. If eligible, contact DWP for clarification.
2. Is help available with internet or mobile bills?
Yes. Many providers offer social tariffs for UC claimants. Contact your broadband or mobile provider to check available plans.
3. Can I get emergency cash assistance?
Yes. Some councils provide crisis grants or emergency hardship payments. Contact your local authority or Citizens Advice for details.
4. Are cost of living payments taxable?
No. These payments are tax-free and won’t affect your eligibility for other benefits.
5. What if I’m working while on Universal Credit?
You can still access most forms of support, including cost of living payments, school help, and energy grants, even if you work part-time or have variable earnings.
Final Thought
In 2025, Universal Credit claimants are eligible for a wide range of support to help tackle ongoing cost of living pressures. From seasonal payments and energy bill caps to council tax relief and school-related grants, these measures are designed to provide timely and meaningful assistance.
By staying proactive, checking regularly with your local council, and making use of support agencies like Citizens Advice, you can ensure you access every available benefit. Don’t let lack of information prevent you from receiving the help you’re entitled to.
