Family finances made easier with grants and support

Looking after a family can be expensive, but the good news is that support is available for people in severe need and many people are likely missing out on government payments, free childcare, school meals, uniforms, and more.

Here’s some of the help you might be entitled to.

Grants and benefits

If you are responsible for a child under 16 (or someone under 20 if they stay in approved education or training) you could be entitled to child benefit, which is paid every four weeks. There’s no limit to the number of children you can claim for, but only one person can claim child benefit for each child.

If you’re expecting your first child and are receiving certain benefits or tax credits, you might be eligible for the Sure Start Maternity Grant. This is a one-off payment to help with costs if you’re having a baby and you don’t have to pay it back.

For families on Universal Credit or child tax credit, with children under four or if you’re pregnant, NHS Healthy Start vouchers help to buy healthy food and milk.

Childcare and education

Childcare can be expensive, but the government offers free childcare hours depending on your child’s age and your financial situation.

All families in England with children aged 3 and 4 are entitled to 15 hours of free childcare weekly. If you’re a working family with children in this age group, you could get up to 30 hours free each week.

Families with children under 2 who’re receiving certain benefits may also qualify for 15 hours free childcare.

Meanwhile, tax-free childcare helps working parents who’re not on tax credits or childcare vouchers. Through this scheme, the government adds 20% to the money you put into an online childcare account. This helps with childcare costs for children under 12 or disabled children under 17.

Find out more at www.gov.uk/tax-free-childcare.

Extra support

Some councils offer grants for school uniforms, usually to families eligible for free school meals. If your council doesn’t provide help, your child’s school might have support options.

Free school meals are available to all children in reception, year 1, and year 2 at government-funded schools.

Children from families on certain benefits can receive free school meals beyond these years, as well as free holiday activities and food through local council programmes. You need to apply via your council to make sure your child receives these.

For families with disabled children, the Family Fund offers grants for essential items. This support is aimed at low-income families with children aged 17 or under who have disabilities or specific needs.

Remember, if you’re in serious financial need, and don’t have essential white goods, job interview clothes or school uniform for your children, you can also apply for Habinteg’s Tenant Support Fund. Contact your Neighbourhood Coordinator or our Customer Services Team at Habinteg Direct on 0300 365 3100 to find out how to apply.

For more information, visit www.habinteg.org.uk/family.

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