Financial Advice & Benefits Support
Guides, resources, and local services to help you with Universal Credit, PIP, debt, rent, and more — you don't have to navigate the system alone.
Universal Credit
Universal Credit is a monthly payment to help with living costs if you're on a low income, out of work, or unable to work. It replaces six legacy benefits including Housing Benefit and Tax Credits.
- You must apply online at gov.uk/universal-credit
- You need a bank account, email address and phone number
- You'll have a 5-week wait before your first payment — apply for an Advance Payment if needed
- Report ALL changes in income, living situation, or health immediately
- You can ask for a Mandatory Reconsideration if your claim is refused
PIP — Personal Independence Payment
PIP helps with extra costs caused by long-term ill-health or disability. It has two components: daily living and mobility, each paid at standard or enhanced rate.
- PIP is not means-tested — you can claim it even if you work or have savings
- You'll need to fill in a PF2 form describing how your condition affects you daily
- You may be invited to a face-to-face or phone assessment
- Get help completing the form from Citizens Advice or Scope
- If refused, request a Mandatory Reconsideration within 28 days, then appeal
Rent & Deposit Assistance
Struggling to pay a deposit or first month's rent? There are several schemes and grants that can help you access or maintain housing.
- Ask your local council about Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP)
- Some councils offer bond/deposit guarantee schemes instead of cash deposits
- Shelter and Citizens Advice can negotiate with landlords on your behalf
- If you're on Universal Credit, the housing element is paid directly to you — you can request it goes to your landlord
- Local charities and the Household Support Fund may offer one-off grants
Move-On Support
Move-on support helps people leaving homelessness, supported housing, hospital, prison, or care to transition into stable, independent accommodation.
- Local councils have a duty to help certain people — ask about the Housing Duty
- Floating support workers can visit you at home after you move in
- YMCA, St Mungo's, and Nacro run move-on services in many areas
- Your key worker or support worker can make referrals on your behalf
- Check if you're entitled to a Community Care Grant from the Flexible Support Fund
Citizens Advice Bureau
Citizens Advice offers free, independent, confidential advice on benefits, debt, housing, employment, immigration and legal issues. There are 270+ local offices across England and Wales.
- Walk in, call, or find your local bureau at citizensadvice.org.uk
- They can help you appeal benefit decisions and fill in complex forms
- National phone line: 0800 144 8848 (free)
- They also offer online chat and email support
- Advice is completely free and confidential
Debt Management
If you're struggling with debt, free help is available. You should never have to pay for debt advice — any company charging you fees is not regulated.
- StepChange: free debt plans, 0800 138 1111
- National Debtline: free self-help resources, 0808 808 4000
- Christians Against Poverty (CAP): free home visits and budgeting support
- A Debt Relief Order (DRO) may be available if you owe under £30,000
- Breathing Space gives you 60 days free from creditor contact while you get advice