At Monmouthshire Citizens Advice we see many families who are juggling their lives because circumstances have changed through, for example, a cut in working hours, illness or a new baby. We can provide information and advice to help you deal with these challenges.
What financial help may be available?
Low income
Working Tax Credit: tops up income in families where one or more parent is employed. How much you get depends on your circumstances – your hours of work, your income, whether single, lone parent or a couple with or without children, and your age. Certain types of self employment will also count.
In Monmouthshire, if you are single or have moved from another area, you may be receiving Universal Credit. This is a single monthly payment for people in or out of work. It is gradually being introduced and brings together some existing benefits and tax credits.
Extra costs of children
- Statutory maternity pay or Maternity allowance which depend on certain employment and earning conditions
- Parental leave which can be taken by both women and men
- Maternity grant which you may be able to get if you are on a low income, certain benefits and tax credits
- Child benefit can be claimed by most people living in the UK
- Child tax credit which depends on income and number of children
Extra costs of disability or illness
- Disability Living Allowance if you have a disabled child
- Personal Independence Payment to help with costs of extra care and mobility
- Employment and Support Allowance if you are unable to work due to illness or disability
- Carers Allowance for those acting as a full time Carer (and so unable to work).
Older members of the family on a low income may be able to claim Pension Credit to top up their state pension and if they need care they may be eligible for Attendance Allowance.
School uniform grants: if your child is starting secondary school in September you may be entitled to a uniform grant. This will depend on your circumstances and income. Information at www.monfis.org.uk or 01633 644527
Education grants
If you normally live in Wales, are over 16 and a student, you may be eligible for student financial support. The amount of these grants will usually depend on household income.
Education maintenance grant for 16–18 year olds at school or college
Learning Grant Further Education (FE) for 19 years and over studying a FE course at college
Higher Education Support for students studying a part time or full time university course. You may be eligible for support regardless of where in the UK you are studying.
Information at:
www.studentfinancewales.co.uk or 0300 200 4050
Family Budgets
Each time your circumstances change as a family you should check what you are entitled to and your budget. Monmouthshire Citizens Advice can carry out a Benefit Check for you or you can use websites such as Turn2Us. Another thing you can do is try to have savings for expected or unexpected changes in the future. Using Credit Unions for savings or loans is one of the options to help you manage your finances. Information at www.gatewaycu.co.uk
Further information and help from Citizens Advice: www.citizensadvice.org.uk or Adviceline 03444 772020
Information on all benefits at www.gov.uk
Monmouthshire Citizens Advice