Individuals receiving Universal Credit are being reminded of eight crucial freebies and financial supports available this February, with a total potential value exceeding £3,400. Universal Credit is a monthly, means-tested, and non-taxable benefit designed to assist those on low incomes or out of work, with amounts varying based on earnings, savings, and personal circumstances such as caring responsibilities or disabilities.
Household Support Fund: Up to £500
The Household Support Fund (HSF), distributed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to local councils, provides grants of £100 to £500 to households in financial need. For example, in Birmingham, the Hardship Grant Community Fund is currently accepting new enquiries, with payments available to eligible households until March 2026. Applicants who have submitted enquiries since June 2025 should expect confirmation or contact from local teams within three to four weeks.
Warm Home Discount: Up to £150
This one-off £150 payment helps with winter energy costs for those on low incomes or pensions. If your electricity supplier participates, you'll receive it automatically if you or your partner get the Guarantee Credit portion of Pension Credit or another means-tested benefit. It does not affect eligibility for Winter Fuel Payments or Cold Weather Payments.
Free School Meals: Up to £552.90 Annually
In England, households with an annual income under £7,400 (excluding benefits) may qualify for free school meals, saving an average of £552.90 over 190 school days at £2.91 per lunch. In Scotland, all children up to year 5 receive free meals, with older pupils potentially eligible too.
School Uniform Grants: Up to £200 Annually
Some councils offer grants to families on Universal Credit or eligible for free school meals, such as Sefton Council providing £45 for primary and £70 for secondary, or Tower Hamlets Council offering £50 for primary and £150 for secondary. Availability in England depends on local council policies, making it a postcode lottery.
Free or Discounted Travel: Up to 50% Off
The Jobcentre Plus Travel Discount Card offers up to 50% off rail fares for jobseekers claiming Universal Credit or Jobseeker's Allowance for at least 13 weeks. Additionally, the 16–17 Saver Card provides 50% off fares for young people, and the Student Oyster Photocard gives 30% off travelcards and bus passes in London.
Flexible Support Fund: No Set Limit
This government-led fund, managed by local jobcentres, assists parents returning to work by covering costs like childcare, interview travel, uniforms, and work tools, as well as training up to £150. There's no cap on claims, but it cannot reimburse pre-paid expenses.
British Gas Energy Grant: Up to £2,000
British Gas Energy Trust offers grants up to £2,000 to clear energy debt, focusing on applicants who can demonstrate financial sustainability moving forward. The Trust advises exploring alternatives like Bankruptcy or Debt Relief Orders (DROs) first and ensures money advice services act in the applicant's best interests.
Discounted Broadband and Mobile: Around £36 Annually
Social tariffs, such as Community Fibre's £19-per-month plan with no setup fees (24-month contract), can save claimants £3 monthly or £36 yearly compared to standard deals. While standard deals may have cheaper initial prices, social tariffs often prove cheaper for long-term users.
