Grants and one-off payments in the UK

Community Care Grant (Scottish Welfare Fund)

Amount varies

A grant you do not pay back, to help you set up or stay in a settled home.

Who can get it

People aged 16 or over on a low income, such as those leaving care, prison or homelessness, fleeing domestic abuse, or whose home is at risk because of pressures in their life. Savings over £700 (£1,200 for pensioners) make an award less likely.

How to get it

Apply to your local council; most councils decide within 15 working days.

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Your local council

Your council decides the amount.

Source Community Care Grant - how to apply - mygov.scot · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Crisis and Resilience Fund

Amount varies

Emergency cash and other help from your local council if you're in a financial crisis, for things like food, energy bills, essential furniture, clothing and travel.

Who can get it

Low-income households in England. You don't have to be on benefits to get a Crisis Payment, and each council sets its own rules on who counts as low-income.

How to get it

Apply to your local council, which must offer at least two ways to apply (for example online, by phone or in person), all year round.

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Your local council

Started 1 April 2026 and runs to 31 March 2029. It replaced the Household Support Fund and took over Discretionary Housing Payments in England, as a separate Housing Payments strand. Councils aim to make crisis payments within 48 hours. It is also the route for heating oil support in England.

Source Crisis and Resilience Fund: Guidance for local authorities in England (1 April 2026 to 31 March 2029) - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Crisis Grant (Scottish Welfare Fund)

Amount varies

A grant you do not pay back, to help in an emergency such as having no money for food or heating, a fire or flood, or losing your job.

Who can get it

People aged 16 or over on a low income or on certain benefits, such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit, who face an unexpected emergency. You can usually get no more than three in 12 months.

How to get it

Apply to your local council online, by phone, by email or on a paper form; most councils decide within 2 working days.

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Your local council

Your council decides the amount.

Source Crisis Grant - how to apply - mygov.scot · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Discretionary Assistance Fund - Emergency Assistance Payment (EAP)

varies (heating oil awards up to £750; people fleeing domestic abuse can get an enhanced £111 EAP through an approved partner)

A grant you don't pay back, to cover essential costs such as food, gas, electricity, heating oil or emergency travel when you're in a crisis.

Who can get it

People aged 16 or over who live in Wales, are in extreme financial hardship after an unexpected crisis and have no other money available. This includes people who have lost their job or are waiting for their first benefit payment.

How to get it

Apply online at daf.service.gov.wales, by phone on 0800 859 5924 (10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday) or by post; heating oil claims must go through an approved partner.

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Welsh Government Discretionary Assistance Fund (run by NEC Software Solutions)

You cannot apply if you got a grant in the last 7 days or have had 3 grants in the last rolling 12 months. From 18 March 2026 heating oil can be paid up to twice in 12 months.

Source Discretionary Assistance Fund (DAF) | GOV.WALES · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Discretionary Assistance Fund - Individual Assistance Payment (IAP)

Amount varies

A grant you don't pay back, for household items such as white goods, beds and sofas, to help you or someone you care for live independently.

Who can get it

People aged 16 or over in Wales who get a qualifying benefit (such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit Guarantee Credit) and are, for example, leaving care or an institution, setting up home after unsettled living, or fleeing domestic abuse. People fleeing domestic abuse do not need to be on a means-tested benefit.

How to get it

Apply through a DAF approved partner, such as a local authority, housing association or advice charity.

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Welsh Government Discretionary Assistance Fund via approved partners

Items are usually supplied in kind rather than paid as cash.

Source Discretionary Assistance Fund (DAF): Eligibility | GOV.WALES · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Discretionary Support (living expenses and independent living grants)

Amount varies

A crisis grant or interest-free loan from the Department for Communities if an emergency or extreme situation puts your health, safety or well-being at risk.

Who can get it

People aged 18 or over (or 16 or over without parental support) who live in Northern Ireland and face a crisis. Your household's total annual income after deductions must not be more than £29,741.40.

How to get it

Apply to the Finance Support Service online or by phone, with your National Insurance number, income, savings, rent or mortgage details and bank details.

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Department for Communities - Finance Support Service

In any 12 months you can get one living expenses grant, but only if you cannot repay a loan or your combined government debt is over £1,500. You can also get one independent living grant. Loans are more common.

Source Discretionary Support | nidirect · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Universal Credit New Claims Grant

Amount varies

A grant you do not pay back, to cover things like food, toiletries or topping up your fuel meter while you wait for your first full Universal Credit payment.

Who can get it

New Universal Credit claimants in Northern Ireland facing a crisis, with a combined annual income of no more than £29,741.40. You cannot get it if you have had a living expenses grant in the past 12 months.

How to get it

Apply to the Finance Support Service with your National Insurance number, rent or mortgage details, income, savings and bank details.

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Department for Communities - Finance Support Service

Savings may be taken into account.

Source Universal Credit New Claims Grant | nidirect · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Council Tax Reduction

Up to 100% of your Council Tax bill

A means-tested reduction in your Council Tax bill if you are on a low income.

Who can get it

People on a low income or benefits who pay Council Tax. Your income, savings, children and any disability are taken into account.

How to get it

Apply to your local council.

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Your local council

This is an ongoing reduction, not a one-off grant.

Source Council Tax discounts, exemptions and reductions - mygov.scot · Checked 30 Sep 2026 · SortedUK guide

Council Tax Reduction Scheme (Wales)

Amount varies

A reduction on your Council Tax bill if you're on a low income, worked out from your income and savings.

Who can get it

People in Wales on a low income, whether working, unemployed, ill, caring or retired, including people on Universal Credit or Pension Credit. You usually cannot get it if you have savings of £16,000 or more (with some exceptions for pensioners).

How to get it

Apply to your local authority's Council Tax department.

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Your local authority

Separate discounts also exist: 25% single person, up to 50% for some carers, up to 100% for severe cognitive impairment, and the disabled band reduction.

Source Council Tax discounts, disregards, exemptions and reductions | GOV.WALES · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Crisis and Resilience Fund Housing Payments

Amount varies

Money from your council to cover a gap between your rent and the housing support in your benefits, for example because of the benefit cap, the spare room rule or Local Housing Allowance limits.

Who can get it

People in England who get Housing Benefit or Universal Credit with housing costs and need more help with rent.

How to get it

Apply to your local council.

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Your local council

Replaced Discretionary Housing Payments in England from 1 April 2026. People with No Recourse to Public Funds cannot get Housing Payments.

Source Crisis and Resilience Fund: Guidance for local authorities in England (1 April 2026 to 31 March 2029) - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Discretionary Housing Payment

Amount varies

Extra help with rent when Universal Credit or Housing Benefit does not cover your full rent.

Who can get it

Private tenants getting Universal Credit with a housing element (or Housing Benefit) who have a shortfall between their rent and the eligible rent.

How to get it

Fill in the Discretionary Housing Payment form and email or post it to your local Housing Executive Housing Benefit office.

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Northern Ireland Housing Executive

Awards may cover the shortfall for 13 weeks and are then reviewed. There is no automatic entitlement.

Source Discretionary Housing Payment Form - Universal Credit | The Housing Executive · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Discretionary Housing Payment

Amount varies

Extra money from your council to help pay your rent when your benefits do not cover it.

Who can get it

Renters on Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit who are struggling, for example because of the bedroom tax or benefit cap. It can also help with a deposit, rent in advance or removal costs.

How to get it

Apply to your local council.

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Your local council

Each council decides how much you get and for how long.

Source Applying for a Discretionary Housing Payment - mygov.scot · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Discretionary Housing Payments (Wales)

Amount varies

Extra money from your council, on top of benefits, to help with rent or other housing costs.

Who can get it

Social and private tenants in Wales who get Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit and need more help with housing costs.

How to get it

Check your local authority's website and apply to them.

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Your local authority

These ended in England in April 2026, but SI 2026/271 keeps them in Wales and removes the spending cap.

Source Find out about Discretionary Housing Payments | GOV.WALES · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Open Market Shared Equity (OMSE) scheme

varies (you usually pay 60% to 90% of the price and the Scottish Government pays the rest, up to local price limits)

The Scottish Government pays part of the price of a home sold on the open market, so you need a smaller mortgage.

Who can get it

First-time buyers, and priority groups such as social renters, people aged 60 or over, disabled people, armed forces members, recent veterans and bereaved partners of service personnel.

How to get it

Apply using the steps on mygov.scot before you buy.

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Scottish Government

The government keeps a share in the home, so this is not a gift.

Source Open Market Shared Equity scheme - mygov.scot · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Rate Relief and Rate Rebate

Amount varies

Help to reduce the domestic rates bill for people on a low income.

Who can get it

People on a low income, including those getting Universal Credit (who apply for Rate Rebate) or Pension Credit, and people of State Pension age (who apply for Housing Benefit and Rate Relief).

How to get it

Universal Credit claimants contact the Rate Rebate team online; others apply for Housing Benefit and Rate Relief as a homeowner or tenant.

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Land & Property Services / Northern Ireland Housing Executive

Means-tested. The amount depends on your income and your rates bill.

Source People on a low income | nidirect · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Welfare Supplementary Payment - Social Sector Size Criteria (bedroom tax)

Amount varies

A payment that makes up the Housing Benefit or Universal Credit housing costs you lose under the 'bedroom tax' rules.

Who can get it

Social housing tenants whose Housing Benefit or Universal Credit housing costs are cut because they are judged to have a spare bedroom.

How to get it

Usually paid without a claim. If you think you qualify, contact the Welfare Supplementary Payments Team.

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Department for Communities - Welfare Supplementary Payments Team

Paid to your landlord, or to you if your Housing Benefit is paid to you. The benefit cap and bedroom tax payments were extended to 31 March 2028 (Ministerial statement, 5 December 2024).

Source Changes to Housing Benefit | nidirect · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Affordable Warmth Scheme

Amount varies

A grant for energy efficiency work, such as insulation, heating and windows, in private homes affected by fuel poverty.

Who can get it

Homeowners and private tenants in Northern Ireland whose gross total household income is under £23,000 and whose home needs energy measures.

How to get it

Contact the Northern Ireland Energy Advice service on 0800 111 44 55 or at nienergyadvice@nihe.gov.uk, and do not start work until you have written approval.

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Northern Ireland Housing Executive

Subject to funding. It is due to be replaced by the Warm Healthy Homes Fund, expected from April 2027 (consultation closed 19 August 2026). The £7,500 limit (£10,000 for solid wall insulation) dates from 2023 and was not confirmed on a current page.

Source The Housing Executive - Northern Ireland Energy Advice - Energy efficiency grants · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Boiler Upgrade Scheme

£7,500 towards an air source heat pump; £7,500 towards a ground source heat pump; £5,000 towards a biomass boiler; £2,500 towards an air-to-air heat pump

A grant towards replacing a fossil fuel heating system with a heat pump or biomass boiler.

Who can get it

Property owners in England and Wales replacing oil, gas, electric or LPG heating who meet the scheme's conditions.

How to get it

Your installer applies for the grant and takes it off the price.

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Ofgem (through an MCS-certified installer)

Homes on oil or LPG with no mains gas can get an extra £1,500 for air or ground source heat pumps until March 2027. Hybrid systems are not covered, and there is one grant per property.

Source Apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme: What you can get - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

British Gas Energy Trust Energy Support Grant

Up to £1,700

A charity grant to clear energy debt.

Who can get it

Customers of any supplier in England, Scotland or Wales with energy debt (prepayment £50 to £1,700, credit £100 to £1,700), household income under £25,000 or certain vulnerabilities, and money advice in the last 6 months.

How to get it

Apply online direct to the Trust. There's a built-in benefit check if you haven't had advice.

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British Gas Energy Trust (charity)

Opens 1 October 2026. Customers of OVO, E.ON Next, EDF, ScottishPower, Octopus and several other suppliers must apply to their own supplier's fund first. You can't get a grant if you had one from the Trust in the last 2 years.

Source Energy Grants - British Gas Energy Trust · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Child Winter Heating Payment

£265.50

A yearly payment to help families of disabled children and young people with higher heating costs in winter.

Who can get it

Children and young people under 19 who get the highest care rate of Child Disability Payment or DLA, or the enhanced daily living rate of PIP or Adult Disability Payment, in the qualifying week (21 to 29 September 2026).

How to get it

Paid automatically into the same account as the disability benefit; people living in Scotland do not need to apply.

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Social Security Scotland

Paid once a year, from October and through the winter.

Source Child Winter Heating Payment - mygov.scot · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Cold Weather Payment

£25 for each seven-day period of very cold weather

An automatic payment when your area has very cold weather for seven days in a row.

Who can get it

People getting Pension Credit, income-related ESA, Universal Credit or Support for Mortgage Interest who meet extra conditions, for example having a disabled child or limited capability for work.

How to get it

It is paid automatically into your benefit account within 14 working days of a qualifying cold spell.

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Department for Communities

The scheme reopens on 1 November 2026 and runs to 31 March 2027.

Source Cold Weather Payment | nidirect · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Cold Weather Payment

£25 for each 7-day period of very cold weather between 1 November 2026 and 31 March 2027

An automatic payment when your area has a spell of very cold weather.

Who can get it

People who get certain benefits, such as Pension Credit or Universal Credit (in some circumstances), or Support for Mortgage Interest.

How to get it

Paid automatically when the average temperature is recorded or forecast as 0°C or below for 7 days in a row.

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Department for Work and Pensions

Scotland has the yearly Winter Heating Payment and Northern Ireland has its own Cold Weather Payment.

Source Cold Weather Payment - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Energy Company Obligation (ECO4)

Amount varies

Free or subsidised insulation and heating upgrades paid for by the large energy suppliers.

Who can get it

Households on means-tested benefits such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit or Child Benefit. Through ECO4 Flex, also households with income under £31,000 or with a health condition made worse by a cold home, if their council refers them.

How to get it

Contact any obligated energy supplier (even if it isn't your supplier) or ask your council about ECO4 Flex.

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Obligated energy suppliers / local council (regulated by Ofgem)

ECO4 ends on 31 December 2026 after a nine-month extension. The government is winding ECO down and not replacing it. Future support comes through the Warm Homes Plan.

Source Energy Company Obligation (ECO) - Ofgem · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Energy supplier hardship funds

Amount varies

Help from your own energy supplier if you can't afford your bills, such as grants, debt write-offs, bill credits or prepayment top-ups.

Who can get it

Customers of that supplier who are struggling to pay. Each supplier sets its own rules.

How to get it

Contact your energy supplier and ask about their hardship fund or support schemes.

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Your energy supplier

Energy UK (July 2026) lists funds including Octopus Octo Assist, E.ON Next Energy Fund, EDF, OVO, ScottishPower Hardship Fund and Utilita. Availability changes during the year.

Source Get help with your home or business energy bills - Ofgem · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Fuel Bank Foundation fuel vouchers

Amount varies

Emergency vouchers to top up a prepayment meter.

Who can get it

People with a prepayment meter who are in crisis and are referred by a partner organisation such as a food bank, advice agency or council.

How to get it

You can't apply direct. Ask a referral partner (food bank, advice agency or council) to refer you.

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Fuel Bank Foundation (charity)

The charity says a voucher gives about 7 to 10 days (FAQ) or around two weeks (homepage) of energy, but no fixed amount is published. The site says it works nationwide but doesn't list nations, so check with a local partner whether help is available where you live.

Source Fuel Bank Foundation · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan

Heat pumps, heat network connections and biomass boilers: grant up to £7,500 (plus £1,500 rural uplift where eligible) and optional loan up to £7,500. Insulation: grant up to £7,500 for solid wall insulation, and up to £1,500 for loft, cavity or underfloor insulation.

Grants and optional loans for homeowners to install clean heating, such as heat pumps, and to make their homes more energy efficient.

Who can get it

Homeowners in Scotland improving an existing home they live in as their main home. You do not need to be on benefits.

How to get it

Call Home Energy Scotland on 0808 808 2282 for advice and a referral, then apply online.

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Home Energy Scotland

Money is given out first come, first served while funding lasts. After an offer, you have 9 months to finish the work and claim.

Source Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Home Heating Oil Support Scheme

£100 per eligible address

A £100 digital prepaid card to help with the cost of home heating oil.

Who can get it

Households that use oil as their main heating and either get a qualifying benefit (such as Pension Credit, Universal Credit, ESA, DLA, PIP or Attendance Allowance) or have a net annual income below £30,000 after tax.

How to get it

Apply online at nidirect with your National Insurance number, your household income if needed, and an email address or phone number.

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Department for Communities

The qualifying periods are 1 to 30 April 2026 and 1 to 30 November 2026. Applications close on 31 March 2027.

Source Apply online for home heating oil support | nidirect · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme (NISEP)

Amount varies

Funded energy efficiency measures, such as boiler upgrades, insulation, draught proofing and heating controls, delivered through approved schemes.

Who can get it

Priority schemes are for lower-income or vulnerable households. The Housing Executive gives a total household income of under £38,000 plus other essential criteria.

How to get it

Choose a NISEP scheme, check you are eligible, and apply through the Energy Saving Trust website or the scheme provider.

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Utility Regulator / Energy Saving Trust (scheme providers)

The 2026-27 schemes were approved on 1 April 2026. At least 80% of funding goes to priority customers. Places are limited and each scheme year closes when funding runs out.

Source Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme list of schemes for 2026-2027 published | Utility Regulator · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Warm Home Discount Scheme

£150 discount off your electricity bill

A one-off discount on your electricity bill for winter.

Who can get it

In England and Wales, people who got Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, income-related ESA or Pension Credit on 23 August 2026 and whose name (or partner's) is on the electricity bill with a supplier in the scheme. Scotland has different rules.

How to get it

Usually applied automatically by your supplier. In Scotland you may need to apply to your supplier.

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Your electricity supplier / Department for Energy Security and Net Zero

For winter 2026 to 2027. The scheme reopens in October 2026. Prepayment customers may get a voucher. Not available in Northern Ireland.

Source Warm Home Discount Scheme - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026 · SortedUK guide

Warm Homes Nest scheme

varies (improvements are free of charge)

Free energy advice and, if you qualify, free home improvements such as insulation, a new boiler, a heat pump or solar panels.

Who can get it

Low-income homeowners and private tenants in Wales, either on a means-tested benefit in a poorly rated home (EPC E, F or G) or on a low income with a qualifying health condition in a home rated D or lower.

How to get it

Call Nest free on 0808 808 2244 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm) or ask for a callback online.

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Nest (Welsh Government Warm Homes programme)

This is still the scheme's name in 2026 and it has not been replaced. A July 2026 Welsh Government review describes it as running, with over £30m allocated for 2026-27.

Source Nest Warm Homes Programme | GOV.WALES · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Warm Homes: Local Grant

Amount varies

Free energy upgrades such as insulation, heat pumps, solar panels and smart controls, arranged by your council.

Who can get it

Owner-occupiers and private tenants in England whose home has an EPC rating of D to G and whose household income is usually £36,000 a year or less. Some higher earners qualify through their postcode or benefits.

How to get it

Apply online through the GOV.UK service. Your council usually contacts you within 10 working days.

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Your local council (GOV.UK service)

Only in councils taking part. This is how low-income households get grants under the Warm Homes Plan (announced January 2026), and the government plans to merge it into a single low-income scheme from 2027 to 2028. The Warm Homes Plan's own offer for other households is loans, so it's left out here.

Source Apply for the Warm Homes: Local Grant to improve a home - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Warmer Homes Scotland

Amount varies

A Scottish Government scheme that installs insulation, heating or renewables in homes that are hard to heat, usually at no cost to the household.

Who can get it

Homeowners or private tenants who have lived in the home for at least 6 months, where someone in the household gets a qualifying benefit, is 75 or over with no working heating, or has a DS1500 or BASRiS medical certificate.

How to get it

Contact Home Energy Scotland on 0808 808 2282 or use its online self-assessment tool.

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Home Energy Scotland

Home Energy Scotland says support is worth £10,000 or more. A few households may need to pay part of the cost and can get an interest-free loan for it.

Source Warmer Homes Scotland - Home Energy Scotland · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Winter Heating Payment

£62.00

A yearly payment to help low-income households with heating costs in winter.

Who can get it

People getting certain benefits in the qualifying week (2 to 8 November 2026), such as Pension Credit. Universal Credit, Income Support, income-based JSA or income-related ESA also count if you meet extra conditions, such as a disability element or a child under 5.

How to get it

Paid automatically if you get a qualifying benefit; you do not need to apply.

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Social Security Scotland

Paid from December. It shows as 'WHP' on bank statements.

Source Winter Heating Payment - mygov.scot · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Best Start Foods

Every 4 weeks: £22.40 during pregnancy; £44.80 per child from birth to age 1; £22.40 per child aged 1 to 3

A prepaid card, topped up every 4 weeks, for buying healthy food.

Who can get it

People who are pregnant or have a child under 3 and are on a low income, usually getting certain benefits such as Universal Credit.

How to get it

Apply to Social Security Scotland on the same form as Best Start Grant, online, by phone or on paper.

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Social Security Scotland

This is a regular payment every 4 weeks on a card, not a one-off grant.

Source Best Start Grant and Best Start Foods - mygov.scot · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Best Start Grant Early Learning Payment

£331.95 per child

A one-off payment to help with costs when a child starts nursery or early learning.

Who can get it

Families on certain benefits, such as Universal Credit, whose child is aged between 2 and 3 years 6 months.

How to get it

Apply to Social Security Scotland online, by phone (0800 182 2222) or on a paper form.

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Social Security Scotland

Source Best Start Grant and Best Start Foods - mygov.scot · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Best Start Grant Pregnancy and Baby Payment

£796.65 for a first child; £398.35 for later children; an extra £398.35 for each additional baby in a multiple birth

A one-off payment to help with the costs of being pregnant or having a new baby.

Who can get it

Parents or parents-to-be in Scotland on a low income, usually getting certain benefits such as Universal Credit. You can apply from week 24 of pregnancy until the baby is 6 months old.

How to get it

Apply to Social Security Scotland online, by phone (0800 182 2222) or on a paper form; one form covers all the Best Start payments.

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Social Security Scotland

From 18 March 2026, some refugees and people who returned to the UK in an emergency can get the higher first-child rate even if it is not their first child.

Source Best Start Grant and Best Start Foods - mygov.scot · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Best Start Grant School Age Payment

£331.95 per child

A one-off payment to help with costs when a child starts primary school.

Who can get it

Families on certain benefits, such as Universal Credit, whose child is old enough to start school. When you can apply depends on the child's date of birth.

How to get it

Apply to Social Security Scotland online, by phone (0800 182 2222) or on a paper form during your child's application window.

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Social Security Scotland

Source Best Start Grant and Best Start Foods - mygov.scot · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Childcare Offer for Wales

Up to 30 hours a week (at least 10 hours of nursery education plus up to 20 hours of childcare) for up to 48 weeks a year

Government-funded childcare and nursery education for 3 and 4 year olds.

Who can get it

Parents living in Wales who each earn £100,000 or less a year and work at least 16 hours a week at minimum wage, are on statutory paid leave, or are on a course of 10 weeks or more. Some families on certain benefits can also qualify.

How to get it

Check eligibility and apply through the Childcare Offer for Wales online service on GOV.WALES.

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Welsh Government / your local authority

Helpline 03000 628 628. Nursery education hours are arranged separately with your council.

Source Get up to 30 hours of childcare for 3 and 4 year olds: Eligibility | GOV.WALES · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Family Fund grants

Amount varies

Charity grants for families raising a disabled or seriously ill child, for items such as appliances, clothing, sensory toys, technology and breaks.

Who can get it

Low-income families (on benefits, or working under income limits) with a child or young person aged 17 or under who needs substantial support in at least 3 of 7 areas of daily life.

How to get it

Apply online direct to Family Fund.

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Family Fund (charity)

As of 24 September 2026, the England programme is only taking first-time applicants until March 2027 because of high demand.

Source Are we eligible? - Family Fund · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Flying Start childcare for 2 year olds

12.5 hours a week (2.5 hours a day, 5 days a week)

Free, part-time, good-quality childcare for 2 year olds.

Who can get it

Families with a 2 year old in eligible areas, based on postcode. It is now available to all 2 year olds in Merthyr Tydfil, Newport, Swansea and Wrexham, and is being phased in elsewhere.

How to get it

Contact your local Family Information Service to check your postcode and apply.

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Your local authority's Family Information Service

It depends on where you live. Apply for the Childcare Offer separately when your child turns 3.

Source Flying Start childcare: a guide for parents and carers | GOV.WALES · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Free Childcare for Working Parents

30 hours of free childcare per week for 38 weeks of the year

Free childcare hours at an approved provider for children from 9 months old until they start school.

Who can get it

Working parents in England who meet the earnings rules. Some 2-year-olds from families getting extra support also qualify.

How to get it

Apply online through the Childcare Service, then give your code to your provider.

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Childcare Service (GOV.UK)

Providers may charge for extras such as meals or nappies. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own schemes.

Source Free Childcare for Working Parents: What you'll get - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Free school meals

Free school meals (no cash amount)

Free school lunches for children at state-funded schools.

Who can get it

From the 2026 to 2027 school year, children in England whose household gets Universal Credit, whatever the household income, plus families on some other benefits. All children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 get them automatically.

How to get it

Apply through your local council.

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Your local council

The £7,400 income limit for Universal Credit households was removed from September 2026.

Source Apply for free school meals - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Holiday Activities and Food programme

Free places (no cash amount)

Free holiday clubs with at least one healthy meal a day, run in the Easter, summer and Christmas holidays.

Who can get it

School-age children in England who get benefits-related free school meals. Councils can also use some places for other children they think would benefit.

How to get it

Book through your local council's holiday programme. Schools may also refer children.

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Your local council

Usually at least 4 days at Easter and 16 days in summer, with some provision at Christmas. The 2026 to 2027 guidance links eligibility to the targeted free school meals group (Universal Credit household income of £7,400 or less).

Source Holiday activities and food programme 2026 to 2027 financial year - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

School Clothing Grant

At least £120 per primary pupil and £150 per secondary pupil

A yearly grant from your council to help buy school uniform and clothing.

Who can get it

Families with school-age children who meet their council's rules. Each council sets its own rules and amount.

How to get it

Apply to your local council.

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Your local council

Most councils take applications from July to March and make most payments in July or August.

Source Help with school clothing costs - mygov.scot · Checked 30 Sep 2026

School Essentials Grant (formerly PDG Access)

£125 per child per school year; £200 for children starting year 7

A yearly grant to help pay for school uniform, sports kit, equipment, laptops or tablets, and uniform for activities such as Scouts or Guides.

Who can get it

Families with a child in reception to year 11 who is eligible for means-tested free school meals, and all children looked after by a local authority. Universal primary free school meals do not count.

How to get it

Apply to your local council once per child per school year, between 1 July 2026 and 31 May 2027.

Run by

Your local authority

It does not affect tax or other benefits.

Source School Essentials Grant: help with school costs | GOV.WALES · Checked 30 Sep 2026

School uniform and PE clothing grant

Primary £42.90. Post-primary or special school: £87.60 if under 15 (£61.20 uniform + £26.40 PE) or £93.60 if 15 or over (£67.20 + £26.40). FE college £26.40 PE only.

A yearly allowance towards school uniform and PE kit for pupils from low-income families.

Who can get it

Pupils at primary, post-primary and special schools who meet criteria similar to free school meals. Nursery and reception pupils are not covered.

How to get it

Apply online to the Education Authority through its free school meals and uniform grant application.

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Education Authority

Amounts are for 2026/27. Usually only one clothing allowance per pupil each school year.

Source Frequently Asked Questions: Free School Meals/Uniform Grants | Education Authority Northern Ireland · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Scotland's Baby Box

Amount varies

A free box of baby essentials, including clothes, bedding, a mattress, a thermometer and books.

Who can get it

Every newborn baby living in Scotland whose parent is registered with a midwife.

How to get it

Your midwife registers you at your 18 to 20 week or 28 week appointment, and the box arrives in the 4 weeks before your due date.

Run by

Your midwife (Scottish Government scheme)

You get items, not cash.

Source Scotland's Baby Boxes - mygov.scot · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Scottish Child Payment

£28.20 a week per child

A weekly payment, paid every 4 weeks, for each child under 16 in a low-income family.

Who can get it

The person looking after a child under 16 who gets certain benefits such as Universal Credit. Only one person can get it for each child.

How to get it

Apply to Social Security Scotland online, by phone (0800 182 2222) or on a paper form.

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Social Security Scotland

This is a weekly payment, not a grant. It does not affect other benefits.

Source Scottish Child Payment - mygov.scot · Checked 30 Sep 2026 · SortedUK guide

Sure Start Maternity Grant

£500 (£1,000 for triplets or more in some cases)

A one-off payment towards the costs of a new baby.

Who can get it

People getting income-related ESA, Pension Credit, Universal Credit or Support for Mortgage Interest who usually have no other children. There are exceptions for multiple births, some kinship or adoption arrangements, and refugees or people arriving from Afghanistan or Ukraine.

How to get it

Send form SF100 with proof of the due date, birth or adoption. You can claim from 11 weeks before the due date up to six months after the birth or adoption.

Run by

Department for Communities

If you already have children, you may get £0 to £500 depending on previous multiple births.

Source Social Fund Sure Start Maternity Grant | nidirect · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Sure Start Maternity Grant

A Sure Start Maternity Grant is £500 and you do not have to pay it back.

A one-off payment to help with the costs of having a first baby, or twins or triplets.

Who can get it

People expecting their first child, or a multiple birth, who get certain benefits such as Universal Credit. You may not get it if you already have children.

How to get it

Claim from DWP from 11 weeks before the baby is due until 6 months after the birth.

Run by

Department for Work and Pensions

Scotland has the Pregnancy and Baby Payment and Northern Ireland has its own Sure Start Maternity Grant.

Source Sure Start Maternity Grant - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Tax-Free Childcare

For every £8 you pay into the account, the government will top it up by £2 - up to £2,000 a year per child (£4,000 if disabled)

The government adds money to an online childcare account that you use to pay a registered childcare provider.

Who can get it

Working parents, usually, with children aged 11 or under (16 or under if disabled).

How to get it

Open a childcare account online and reconfirm your details every 3 months.

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HM Revenue and Customs

Your childcare provider must be signed up to the scheme.

Source Tax-Free Childcare - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026 · SortedUK guide

Welfare Supplementary Payment - Benefit Cap

Covers any loss of Housing Benefit or Universal Credit

A payment that makes up Housing Benefit or Universal Credit lost because of the benefit cap.

Who can get it

Households with children whose Housing Benefit or Universal Credit is reduced by the benefit cap.

How to get it

Contact the Welfare Supplementary Payments Team to check if you are eligible. Payments are made every four weeks in arrears.

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Department for Communities - Welfare Supplementary Payments Team

Only for households with children. Extended to 31 March 2028.

Source The Benefit Cap | nidirect · Checked 30 Sep 2026

16 to 19 Bursary Fund

up to £1,200 (bursary for vulnerable groups); discretionary bursary amounts decided by your provider

Money to help with education costs such as travel, meals, books and equipment for students aged 16 to 19.

Who can get it

Students in further education or training in England. The fixed bursary is for defined vulnerable groups, such as young people in or leaving care or on certain benefits. Others can ask for a discretionary bursary.

How to get it

Apply to your school, college or training provider.

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Your school, college or training provider

Students aged 19 or over can only get a discretionary bursary.

Source 16 to 19 Bursary Fund: What you'll get - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Adult Dependants' Grant

£3,545 (maximum, 2026 to 2027)

A grant for full-time students who have an adult, such as a partner, who depends on them financially.

Who can get it

Full-time higher education students from England with a financially dependent adult. The amount depends on income.

How to get it

Apply through Student Finance England.

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Student Finance England

Source Support with living and other costs: 2026 to 2027 academic year - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Apprenticeship bursary for care leavers

£3,000, paid in three instalments of £1,000

A bursary for care leavers who start an apprenticeship.

Who can get it

Care leavers in England who are under 25 when they start an apprenticeship and haven't had this bursary before.

How to get it

Paid automatically through your training provider at 60, 120 and 300 days into the apprenticeship.

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Your apprenticeship training provider (DWP-funded)

For apprenticeships starting on or after 1 August 2023. DWP took over responsibility from DfE on 1 April 2026.

Source Apprenticeships care leavers' bursary guidance - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Care Experienced Students' Bursary

£9,000 a year

A bursary you do not pay back for care-experienced students in higher education.

Who can get it

Students from Scotland who have been looked after by a local authority, studying a full-time higher education course.

How to get it

Apply online to SAAS as part of your funding application.

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Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS)

The amount was confirmed by the Scottish Parliament's research service (June 2026) because the SAAS page would not load.

Source Student support and fees part 3: Support for Higher Education students - SPICe (Scottish Parliament) · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Care to Learn

Up to £180 per child per week if you live outside London; £195 per child per week if you live in London

Help with childcare costs for young parents while they study.

Who can get it

Young parents in England on a publicly funded course, such as at school sixth form or college.

How to get it

Apply through your school or college. The money is paid straight to your childcare provider.

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Your school or college (Department for Education scheme)

The page I checked did not show the age limit, so check eligibility with your provider.

Source Care to Learn: What you'll get - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Childcare Grant (students)

85% of your childcare costs or a fixed maximum amount, whichever is less: £199.62 a week for one child, £342.24 a week for 2 or more children

A grant towards childcare costs for full-time higher education students with children.

Who can get it

Full-time students from England getting student finance who have children under 15 (or under 17 with special educational needs).

How to get it

Apply through Student Finance England with your main student finance application.

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Student Finance England

The 2026 to 2027 GOV.UK student support publication confirms the same maximums. Doesn't have to be paid back.

Source Childcare Grant: What you'll get - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Disabled Students' Allowance

Up to £27,783 per year

Help with extra study costs caused by a disability, long-term illness or mental health condition, such as equipment, software or support workers.

Who can get it

Undergraduate and postgraduate students from England who have a disability, long-term health condition, mental health condition or specific learning difficulty.

How to get it

Apply through Student Finance England. You'll then have a needs assessment.

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Student Finance England

The same maximum applies for 2026 to 2027. You pay the first £200 of a new computer. Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own DSA schemes.

Source Help if you're a student with a learning difficulty, health problem or disability: Disabled Students' Allowance - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Disabled Students' Allowance (SAAS)

Basic allowance up to £1,725 a year; equipment up to £5,160 over the whole course; personal help up to £20,520 a year

Funding you do not pay back for extra study costs caused by a disability, long-term health condition or learning difficulty.

Who can get it

Higher education students from Scotland who have a disability, long-term health condition or learning difficulty.

How to get it

Apply to SAAS.

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Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS)

Source Student support and fees part 3: Support for Higher Education students - SPICe (Scottish Parliament) · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA)

£30 a week, paid fortnightly, plus two possible £100 bonuses

A weekly payment for 16 to 19-year-olds staying in full-time education or training at school or college.

Who can get it

Students on eligible courses at Level 3 or below, full-time at school or doing at least 15 guided hours a week at college. Household income must be £20,500 or less (one dependent child) or £22,500 or less (more than one).

How to get it

Download and send the EMA application form for 2026 to 2027 from nidirect, or call the EMA helpline on 0300 200 7089.

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Student Finance NI / EMA NI (Student Loans Company)

The bonuses are paid in January and June if you meet the goals in your learning agreement.

Source Education Maintenance Allowance explained | nidirect · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA)

£30 a week

A weekly payment for young people from low-income households who stay on at school or go to college.

Who can get it

Young people aged 16 to 19 from lower-income households. The gov.scot policy page gives income limits of £24,421 for households with one dependent child and £26,884 for households with more than one.

How to get it

Apply to your local council or college each academic year and sign a learning agreement.

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Your local council or college

Only paid if you meet the attendance rules. The income limits come from a gov.scot page last updated in September 2024.

Source Apply for Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) - mygov.scot · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) Wales

£40 a week (2026/27)

A weekly payment for 16 to 18 year olds in Wales who stay on in education at school or college.

Who can get it

16 to 18 year olds living in Wales whose household income is £24,570 or less, or £27,273 or less if there are other dependent children in the household. Care leavers and independent students do not need to give income details.

How to get it

Apply to Student Finance Wales, ideally before term starts; 2026/27 applications are open.

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Student Finance Wales

It depends on attendance at your school or college.

Source Providing your household income as an EMA student | Student Finance Wales · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Maintenance Grant / Special Support Grant (higher education)

Up to £3,569 in 2026-27 (full grant if household income is £19,203 or less)

A non-repayable grant towards living costs for full-time higher education students.

Who can get it

Full-time higher education students who normally live in Northern Ireland and study at a UK institution, with household income up to £41,065.

How to get it

Apply through Student Finance NI, ideally before the course starts and no later than nine months into the academic year.

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Student Finance NI

Students who can get certain benefits receive the Special Support Grant instead, which does not reduce their Maintenance Loan.

Source Maintenance Grant | nidirect · Checked 30 Sep 2026

NHS Learning Support Fund

Training Grant: £5,000 per academic year; Parental Support: £2,000 per academic year (pro rata for part-time students)

Non-repayable grants for nursing, midwifery and allied health profession students.

Who can get it

Students on eligible pre-registration healthcare courses at universities in England, such as nursing, midwifery, physiotherapy or paramedic science.

How to get it

Apply online through an NHS Learning Support Fund account within 6 months of the start of your academic year.

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NHS Business Services Authority

Some courses get an extra £1,000 Specialist Subject Payment. Placement travel costs and an Exceptional Support Fund for hardship are also available.

Source NHS Learning Support Fund (LSF) - NHSBSA · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Parents' Learning Allowance

between £50 and £2,024 a year

Help with course costs for full-time students who have children.

Who can get it

Full-time higher education students from England with dependent children. The amount depends on household income.

How to get it

Apply through Student Finance England. It is paid in three instalments, one at the start of each term.

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Student Finance England

The amount is for 2026 to 2027. Doesn't have to be paid back.

Source Parents' Learning Allowance: What you'll get - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Welsh Government Learning Grant (Further Education)

Up to £1,919 full-time or £959 part-time (2026/27), depending on household income

A means-tested grant for adults studying a further education course at college.

Who can get it

Students aged 19 or over living in Wales, on a household income of £18,370 or less. Care leavers only need to show proof of their status.

How to get it

Apply to Student Finance Wales before the academic year starts; 2026/27 applications are open.

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Student Finance Wales

A GOV.WALES statistics page still says up to £1,500; the Student Finance Wales 2026/27 table is newer.

Source Providing your household income as an WGLG student | Student Finance Wales · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Welsh Government Learning Grant (higher education maintenance grant)

£1,020 base grant for everyone eligible; maximum £7,020 living at home, £8,260 living away outside London, £10,325 in London (2026/27, full grant on household income of £18,370 or less)

A grant you don't pay back, towards living costs for full-time undergraduates from Wales, paid alongside a maintenance loan.

Who can get it

Full-time undergraduate students who normally live in Wales. Every eligible student gets a £1,020 base grant, and more is paid on household incomes up to £59,200.

How to get it

Apply online to Student Finance Wales for tuition and living cost support.

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Student Finance Wales

Total support (grant plus loan) is fixed, so a bigger grant means a smaller loan.

Source Rates of undergraduate student support (2018 cohort) for academic year 2026 to 2027 | GOV.WALES · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Young Students' Bursary and Independent Students' Bursary (SAAS)

Young Students' Bursary £500 to £2,000 a year (household income under £34,000); Independent Students' Bursary £1,000 a year (income £20,999 or less)

Bursaries you do not pay back for Scottish students in full-time higher education, paid on top of a student loan.

Who can get it

Full-time higher education students from Scotland from lower-income households. Students supported by their parents can get the Young Students' Bursary; independent students can get the Independent Students' Bursary.

How to get it

Apply online to SAAS as part of your yearly funding application.

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Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS)

Young Students' Bursary bands: £2,000 (income up to £20,999), £1,125 (£21,000 to £23,999), £500 (£24,000 to £33,999). The Scottish Parliament's research service confirmed these ranges for 2026-27.

Source SAAS Student Funding Key Facts · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Access to Work

1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027: £69,260 (annual maximum)

A grant for practical support at work if you have a disability or health condition, such as equipment, support workers, travel costs or mental health support.

Who can get it

People aged 16 or over who are in paid work, or about to start, and need support because of a disability or health condition.

How to get it

Apply online or call 0800 121 7479.

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Department for Work and Pensions

Northern Ireland runs a separate Access to Work service.

Source Access to Work: factsheet for customers - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Access to Work (NI)

Amount varies

Practical and financial help for disabled people to start or stay in work, such as equipment, adaptations, communication support and travel costs.

Who can get it

Disabled people in work, or about to start a job, who have difficulties at work because of their disability.

How to get it

Email HealthandWorkSupportCo-ordination@communities-ni.gov.uk or speak to a work coach at your Jobs and Benefits office.

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Department for Communities

Approved for up to three years at a time. It does not pay for reasonable adjustments the employer must make.

Source Access to Work (NI) - practical help at work | nidirect · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Adviser Discretion Fund (ADF)

Up to £1,500 in a 12-month period

A grant you do not pay back, for costs that stop you getting into work, such as training, travel, childcare, broadband or self-employment start-up costs.

Who can get it

People getting qualifying benefits such as Universal Credit, ESA, Housing Benefit or Carer's Allowance (and some partners), or lone parents aged 16 or over.

How to get it

Speak to your work coach at your local Jobs and Benefits office.

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Department for Communities - Jobs and Benefits office

No automatic entitlement. Each request is decided on its merits.

Source Adviser Discretion Fund (ADF) | nidirect · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Help to Save

a bonus of 50p for every £1 saved over 4 years (save up to £50 a month; up to £1,200 in bonuses)

A savings account where the government adds a bonus of 50p for every £1 you save.

Who can get it

People getting Universal Credit with take-home pay of £1 or more in their last monthly assessment period.

How to get it

Open an account online through GOV.UK. Bonuses are paid after years 2 and 4.

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HM Revenue and Customs

The account closes after 4 years and you can't open another one. The £1,200 maximum is worked out from the £50 monthly limit.

Source Get help with savings if you're on a low income (Help to Save) - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026 · SortedUK guide

Help with job expenses (Universal Credit)

Amount varies

Money from the jobcentre to cover costs of getting or starting a job, such as uniforms, equipment, interview travel or childcare before your first wage.

Who can get it

Universal Credit claimants who need the money to get or start a job and can't afford it themselves.

How to get it

Ask your work coach or write in your Universal Credit journal.

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Jobcentre Plus (DWP)

You don't usually have to pay it back. It is not the same as a Universal Credit advance, which is a loan.

Source Apply for a Universal Credit advance or hardship payment: Help with job expenses - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Job Start Payment

£331.95, or £531.10 if you are the main carer of a child

A one-off payment to help with the costs of starting a new job.

Who can get it

Young people aged 16 to 24 (care leavers aged 16 to 25) on certain benefits who have a job offer of at least 12 hours a week. Young people who are not care leavers must have been on benefits and out of work for at least 6 months.

How to get it

Apply to Social Security Scotland online, by phone or on paper within 6 months of the job offer.

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Social Security Scotland

You can only get it once every 2 years.

Source Who can apply - Job Start Payment - mygov.scot · Checked 30 Sep 2026

ReAct+

Up to £1,500 towards training, plus help with travel and childcare costs while training

Money towards vocational training to help people get back into work after redundancy.

Who can get it

People in Wales who have been made redundant in the last 6 months or are under notice of redundancy.

How to get it

Contact Careers Wales (Working Wales) to arrange an appointment.

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Careers Wales / Working Wales

Also available to some other unemployed groups; check with Careers Wales.

Source Options after redundancy | Careers Wales · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Disabled Facilities Grant

Up to £35,000; in some cases up to a maximum of £70,000

A grant to adapt a home so a disabled person can live there more easily, for example with a stairlift or an accessible bathroom.

Who can get it

Homeowners, landlords and private tenants where a disabled person lives in the property. It is usually means-tested, but not for a disabled child you get Child Benefit for.

How to get it

Contact your local Health and Social Care Trust occupational therapy service, which assesses you and recommends the work.

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Northern Ireland Housing Executive (after a Health Trust occupational therapist referral)

You cannot apply to the Housing Executive directly. Adaptations for Housing Executive tenants are handled separately.

Source The Housing Executive - Disabled facilities grant · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Disabled Facilities Grant

Up to £30,000

A council grant to adapt a home for a disabled person, for example with ramps, stairlifts or an accessible bathroom.

Who can get it

Disabled people, or the person applying for them, who own or rent the home. It is means-tested for adults, but not for disabled children under 18.

How to get it

Apply to your local council before any work starts.

Run by

Your local council

You might not get a grant if work starts before the council approves it. Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own adaptation schemes.

Source Disabled Facilities Grants: What you'll get - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Disabled Facilities Grant and ENABLE adaptations (Wales)

Amount varies

Grants to adapt your home, such as ramps, wider doors, stairlifts or a downstairs bathroom, so a disabled or older person can live independently.

Who can get it

Disabled or older homeowners and tenants in Wales who need adaptations. In Wales, small and medium adaptations are not means-tested.

How to get it

Homeowners contact their local authority, which may send an occupational therapist; tenants contact their landlord.

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Your local authority (or landlord); Care & Repair agencies for some ENABLE work

Large adaptations may still be means-tested. GOV.WALES does not publish a maximum; Age Cymru gives £36,000 for the mandatory grant.

Source Adapt your home if you are disabled or an older person | GOV.WALES · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Disabled Persons Allowance (rates)

25 per cent reduction on domestic rates

A reduction on domestic rates for homes adapted for a disabled person.

Who can get it

Households where a disabled person lives and the home has been adapted or has extra facilities for their needs, such as an extra bathroom, a therapy room or wheelchair access.

How to get it

Send the Disabled Persons Allowance form with medical evidence and adaptation details to Land & Property Services by email or post.

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Land & Property Services

Keep paying your rates while you wait. Any overpayment is refunded if you are approved.

Source Disabled Persons Allowance | nidirect · Checked 30 Sep 2026

ILF Scotland Transition Fund

Up to £4,000 for 1 year

A grant to help young disabled people take part in activities and build independence as they move into adult life.

Who can get it

Disabled young people aged 16 to 25 living in Scotland who have not had a Transition Fund award before.

How to get it

Apply online through the ILF Scotland applicant portal at least 11 weeks before you need the money.

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ILF Scotland

Only first-time applicants can apply. Decisions take about 12 weeks.

Source Transition Fund - ILF Scotland · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Independent Living Fund Scotland

Up to £330 a week

Extra funding, on top of council social care, to help disabled people with the most complex needs live independently.

Who can get it

Disabled people aged 16 or over in Scotland who use Self-Directed Support and have a large social work care budget (at least £800 a week net under the 2024 rules).

How to get it

You cannot apply yourself; your local council social work department applies for you.

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ILF Scotland through your local council social work department

Reopened in April 2024 for up to 1,000 new people, and ILF Scotland's website says it is still open. The £330 maximum and £800 threshold come from the 2024 announcement.

Source Independent Living Fund Re-Opens to New Applicants - ILF Scotland · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Vaccine Damage Payment

a one-off tax-free payment of £120,000

A one-off tax-free payment if you were severely disabled by a vaccination against certain diseases.

Who can get it

People who are at least 60% disabled because of a qualifying vaccination given in the UK or Isle of Man, including COVID-19, MMR, HPV and others. Most vaccinations must have been given before age 18.

How to get it

Claim from DWP using the Vaccine Damage Payment claim form.

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Department for Work and Pensions (Vaccine Damage Payments Unit)

This is not a compensation scheme, and you can still take legal action.

Source Vaccine Damage Payment - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Carers Support Fund (Wales)

Amount varies

Small grants and help for unpaid carers struggling with money, such as food vouchers, household goods, energy costs and IT equipment.

Who can get it

Unpaid carers living in Wales who are facing financial hardship.

How to get it

Apply to the local carers organisation that runs the fund for your council area.

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Carers Trust Wales via local carer organisations

Announced 5 November 2025, with funding for 2026 to 2029 shared with the Short Breaks Scheme. No maximum grant is published.

Source £15.75m Welsh Government funding to support unpaid carers | Welsh Government News · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Carers Trust grants for unpaid carers

Amount varies

Small charity grants for unpaid carers, for things like household items, breaks or bills.

Who can get it

Unpaid carers supported by a local Carers Trust Network Partner.

How to get it

Contact your local Carers Trust Network Partner, which applies as part of its support.

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Carers Trust (through local Network Partners)

Whether grants are available depends on the local partner. Some partners need you to be registered with them and may have waiting lists.

Source Grants & Financial Support for Carers - Carers Trust · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Scottish Carer Supplement

£11.70 a week (£46.80 every 4 weeks)

A regular top-up paid with Carer Support Payment, replacing the twice-yearly Carer's Allowance Supplement.

Who can get it

Carers in Scotland who get Carer Support Payment.

How to get it

Paid automatically with Carer Support Payment; there is no separate application.

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Social Security Scotland

This is a weekly payment that started in March 2026. It is worth about £609 a year.

Source Scottish Carer Supplement - mygov.scot · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Take a Break Scotland

Amount varies

A cash grant funded by the Scottish Government to help parent carers of disabled children take a short break from caring.

Who can get it

Parent carers who have lived in Scotland for at least 6 months and care for a disabled or seriously ill child aged 0 to 17 who lives at home.

How to get it

Apply online at takeabreakscotland.org.uk while the yearly application window is open.

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Family Fund (Take a Break Scotland)

The 2026 application window ran from 5 May to 22 June 2026 and is now closed.

Source Take A Break Scotland grant opens for 2026 applications - Family Fund · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Young Carer Grant

£405.10 a year

A yearly payment for young people who spend a lot of time caring for someone.

Who can get it

Young carers aged 16, 17, 18 or 19 who have cared for 1, 2 or 3 people for an average of 16 hours a week for at least the last 3 months.

How to get it

Apply to Social Security Scotland online, by phone or on paper; you can apply again once a full year has passed.

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Social Security Scotland

If you care for someone for 35 hours or more a week, you may be able to get Carer Support Payment instead.

Source Young Carer Grant - mygov.scot · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme

Amount varies

Refunds reasonable travel costs to NHS hospital or specialist appointments you've been referred to.

Who can get it

People referred by a doctor or dentist who get qualifying benefits (such as income-related ESA, Pension Credit Guarantee Credit or Universal Credit meeting set criteria) or who hold an HC2 or HC3 certificate.

How to get it

Claim at the hospital cashier's office or on form HC5(T) within 3 months.

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NHS (hospital or NHSBSA)

You can't claim for routine GP visits or for visiting someone in hospital. The NHS page says it applies to NHS services in Great Britain, but the details are England's scheme, and Wales and Scotland have their own arrangements.

Source Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme (HTCS) - NHS · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Low Income Scheme (help with health costs)

Amount varies

Full or partial help with Health Service dental treatment, sight tests, glasses or contact lenses, wigs and fabric supports, and travel to hospital.

Who can get it

People on a low income, including Universal Credit claimants with earnings, who are not already entitled to free health costs.

How to get it

Send form HC1 to your local Jobs and Benefits office. If you qualify you get an HC2 (full help) or HC3 (partial help) certificate for 12 months.

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Department for Communities / Business Services Organisation

Prescriptions are already free in Northern Ireland. Help starts from the date your claim form is received.

Source Help with health costs | nidirect · Checked 30 Sep 2026

NHS Healthy Start

£4.65 each week in pregnancy (from week 10); £9.30 each week for each child under 1; £4.65 each week for each child aged 1 to 4

A prepaid card for buying milk, infant formula, fruit, vegetables and pulses, plus free vitamins.

Who can get it

People at least 10 weeks pregnant or with a child under 4 who get Universal Credit (family take-home pay of £408 a month or less from work) or Pension Credit. Under-18s who are pregnant qualify whatever benefits they get.

How to get it

Apply online if you're on Universal Credit, or by email or phone if you're on Pension Credit.

Run by

NHS Business Services Authority

Scotland has Best Start Foods instead.

Source Your payments and how to shop - Get help to buy food and milk (Healthy Start) · Checked 30 Sep 2026 · SortedUK guide

NHS Low Income Scheme (help with health costs)

varies (HC2 certificate gives full help; HC3 certificate gives partial help)

Full or partial help with NHS prescription, dental, eye care, wig and fabric support costs and travel to hospital.

Who can get it

People on a low income with savings under £16,000 (£23,250 if living permanently in a care home).

How to get it

Apply online through NHSBSA or on form HC1 by post.

Run by

NHS Business Services Authority

Prescriptions are already free in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Source NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS) - NHS · Checked 30 Sep 2026 · SortedUK guide

Christmas Bonus

£10

A one-off tax-free payment before Christmas.

Who can get it

People who get a qualifying benefit, such as State Pension, Pension Credit, PIP, Attendance Allowance or Carer's Allowance, in the qualifying week (usually the first full week of December).

How to get it

Paid automatically. You don't need to claim.

Run by

Department for Work and Pensions

Source Christmas Bonus - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Free and reduced-fee TV Licences

Free licence (75+ on Pension Credit); 50% concession (blind or severely sight impaired)

A free TV Licence for some people aged 75 and over, and a half-price licence for blind people.

Who can get it

People aged 75 or over who get Pension Credit (free licence), people who are blind or severely sight impaired (50% off), and some care home or sheltered housing residents (reduced fee).

How to get it

Apply to TV Licensing. You can apply from age 74, with evidence of Pension Credit or sight loss.

Run by

TV Licensing

The care home reduced-fee rate was not shown on the page I checked.

Source Free and reduced fee TV Licences - TV Licensing · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Lone Pensioner Allowance

20 per cent discount on rates

A discount on domestic rates for older people who live alone.

Who can get it

People aged 70 or over who live alone. Some people still qualify if they live with a carer, someone under 18, or someone with a severe mental impairment.

How to get it

Homeowners apply to Land & Property Services; tenants apply to the Housing Executive on 03448 920 902.

Run by

Land & Property Services / Northern Ireland Housing Executive

Not means-tested.

Source Lone Pensioner Allowance | nidirect · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Pension Age Winter Heating Payment

£105.55 to £316.70 for winter 2026/27 (£211.15 if aged 66 years 3 months to 79; £316.70 if 80 or over; less if you live with an eligible partner or in residential care)

A yearly payment to help older people with heating costs in winter.

Who can get it

People living in Scotland who had reached State Pension age by the end of the qualifying week (21 to 27 September 2026), which means being born before 27 June 1960. If your own income is over £35,000, the payment is taken back through tax.

How to get it

Most people are paid automatically by Social Security Scotland.

Run by

Social Security Scotland

HMRC takes it back from people whose own income is over £35,000. Joint income does not count.

Source How much you might be paid - Pension Age Winter Heating Payment - mygov.scot · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Winter Fuel Payment

£100 to £300 for winter 2026 to 2027

A yearly tax-free payment to help older people with heating bills.

Who can get it

People born on or before 27 June 1960 who lived in Northern Ireland in the qualifying week, 21 to 27 September 2026. If your income is over £35,000, HMRC takes the payment back.

How to get it

Most people are paid automatically. A letter in October or November confirms the amount; others claim from the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.

Run by

Department for Communities - Winter Fuel Payment Centre

HMRC takes it back through your tax code or Self Assessment if your income is over £35,000.

Source Winter Fuel Payment | nidirect · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Winter Fuel Payment

between £100 and £300

A yearly tax-free payment to help older people pay their heating bills.

Who can get it

People born on or before 27 June 1960 who meet the other conditions. If your own income is over £35,000, HMRC takes the full amount back.

How to get it

Paid automatically in most cases, with a letter in October or November and payment in November or December 2026.

Run by

Department for Work and Pensions

For winter 2026 to 2027. Your partner's income doesn't count towards the £35,000 limit. Scotland has Pension Age Winter Heating Payment and Northern Ireland has its own Winter Fuel Payment.

Source Winter Fuel Payment - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026 · SortedUK guide

Bereavement Support Payment

Higher rate: a one-off payment of £3,500 and 18 monthly payments of £350; lower rate: a one-off payment of £2,500 and 18 monthly payments of £100

A lump sum followed by monthly payments if your husband, wife or civil partner has died.

Who can get it

People whose spouse, civil partner or (in some cases) cohabiting partner died and had paid National Insurance. The higher rate is for those with children or who were pregnant.

How to get it

Claim online, by phone or on form BSP1, within 3 months to get the full amount.

Run by

Department for Work and Pensions

Claims made late are cut back, and after 21 months you usually get nothing. Northern Ireland has its own phone and post claim routes (nidirect).

Source Bereavement Support Payment: What you'll get - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026 · SortedUK guide

Child Funeral Fund

£3,441

A one-off payment towards funeral costs when a child dies.

Who can get it

The person arranging the funeral of a child who died before their 18th birthday, or of a baby stillborn after the 24th week of pregnancy. It is not means-tested.

How to get it

Call the Bereavement Service helpline or send an application form within six months of the funeral.

Run by

Department for Communities - Bereavement Service

It can be paid to the funeral director, to you, or split between both.

Source The Child Funeral Fund | nidirect · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Children's Funeral Fund for England

Burial or cremation fees paid; up to £300 for a coffin, shroud or casket

Pays burial or cremation fees and some other costs for the funeral of a child.

Who can get it

Anyone arranging the funeral in England of a child under 18, or of a baby stillborn after 24 weeks of pregnancy. It is not means-tested.

How to get it

A funeral director usually claims for you. Otherwise, claim online within 6 months of the funeral.

Run by

Ministry of Justice (GOV.UK)

The burial or cremation must take place in England.

Source Support for child funeral costs (Children's Funeral Fund for England) - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Funeral Expenses Payment

Up to £1,000 for funeral expenses such as funeral director's fees, flowers and coffin

A payment towards the cost of a funeral you are responsible for.

Who can get it

People getting ESA, Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, Universal Credit or Support for Mortgage Interest who are the partner, a close relative or a close friend of the person who died, or the parent of a stillborn or deceased child.

How to get it

Call the Bereavement Service helpline, or download or request an application form, within six months of the funeral.

Run by

Department for Communities - Bereavement Service

The funeral location must also meet the criteria. Money from the estate may be taken back from the payment.

Source Funeral Expenses Payments | nidirect · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Funeral Expenses Payment

Up to £1,000 for other expenses (plus burial or cremation fees and other set costs); up to £120 if there is a pre-paid funeral plan

Help with the cost of a funeral, including burial or cremation fees and travel.

Who can get it

People responsible for a funeral who get certain benefits such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit.

How to get it

Claim from DWP online, by phone or on form SF200.

Run by

Department for Work and Pensions

It usually won't cover the full cost and is paid back from the estate. Scotland has Funeral Support Payment and Northern Ireland has its own Funeral Expenses Payment.

Source Get help with funeral costs (Funeral Expenses Payment) - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Funeral Support Payment

Burial or cremation costs, plus a flat-rate payment of £1,327.75 (or £162.05 if there was a paid-up funeral plan)

A one-off payment towards a funeral, covering burial or cremation costs, travel, paperwork and a flat-rate sum for other costs.

Who can get it

People in Scotland responsible for paying for a funeral who, or whose partner, get a benefit such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, Income Support, income-based JSA or income-related ESA. You must apply within 6 months of the funeral.

How to get it

Apply to Social Security Scotland online, by phone (0800 182 2222) or on a paper form, up to 6 months after the funeral.

Run by

Social Security Scotland

Money from the estate, insurance or pensions of the person who died may reduce the payment.

Source Funeral Support Payment flat-rate payment - Social Security Scotland · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Criminal Injuries Compensation

an injury payment of between £1,000 and £250,000; maximum total award £500,000

Compensation for blameless victims of violent crime, including physical or mental injury, sexual assault, or the death of a close relative.

Who can get it

Victims of violent crime who reported it to the police, usually claiming within 2 years of the crime.

How to get it

Apply free online to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority.

Run by

Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority

Northern Ireland has a separate scheme.

Source Claim compensation if you were the victim of a violent crime: How much you can get - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Help with court and tribunal fees

varies (full or part fee remission)

Cuts or removes court and tribunal fees if you're on a low income.

Who can get it

People with low savings who either get certain benefits (for example Universal Credit with earnings under £6,000 a year, or Pension Credit Guarantee Credit) or have monthly income of £1,420 or less if single, or £2,130 or less with a partner (more with children).

How to get it

Apply online at helpwithcourtfees.service.gov.uk or on form EX160.

Run by

HM Courts and Tribunals Service

Court of Protection fees use form COP44A instead.

Source Get help paying court and tribunal fees - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Help with Prison Visits

Amount varies

Help with travel, food and overnight stay costs when visiting someone in prison.

Who can get it

Close relatives, partners or the only visitor of a prisoner, who get benefits such as Universal Credit (household earnings up to £1,250 a month), Pension Credit, Income Support, JSA or ESA, or who hold an HC2 or HC3 certificate.

How to get it

Claim online at help-with-prison-visits.service.gov.uk up to 28 days before or after the visit.

Run by

Ministry of Justice (Help with Prison Visits)

Covers prisons in England, Wales and Scotland. Northern Ireland has different rules.

Source Get help with the cost of prison visits - GOV.UK · Checked 30 Sep 2026

Turn2us Grants Search

Amount varies

A free, confidential online tool to find charitable grants you could apply for from over 1,700 UK organisations.

Who can get it

Anyone in the UK struggling financially.

How to get it

Use the Grants Search on the Turn2us website, then apply to the charities it finds.

Run by

Turn2us (charity)

Turn2us also has a free benefits calculator.

Source Find out about applying for grants - Turn2us · Checked 30 Sep 2026