If you currently claim financial support to pay your rent and council tax but have had a drop in income due to coronavirus, you may be eligible to make a claim for additional benefits under Universal Credit to the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP). You may also be eligible to apply to the Council for further financial support.
Limited financial support via Hackney’s financial assistance programme
Citizens Advice Hackney and Family Action have been grant funded by Hackney Council to provide financial assistance for individuals and families with no recourse to public funds that have been affected by the covid-19 pandemic.
Please note that this limited funding is not a public fund and will therefore not impact on immigration claims by individuals and families and that any identifying information will not be shared with Hackney Council.
There is limited funding available and the grants are to support with emergency help with food, reconnection of fuel supply and cost of utilities, help with travel, toiletries, basic or essential communication needs, rent arrears, basic clothing, child or baby essentials, prescriptions or rent deposits.
This support is for people who are not eligible for the existing support offered by the Council.
If you have any questions about the process and to self-refer via Citizens Advice Bureau, you can email nrpf.hackney@eastendcab.org.uk.
How do I make a Universal Credit claim?
The DWP has dedicated coronavirus information and guidance about how to claim benefits and what benefits you might be entitled to. This advice is being updated regularly in line with arrangements being put in place to support those who are affected by coronavirus.
Please be aware that there has been a huge increase in the number of people applying for Universal Credit, so you may experience extended waiting times while applying.
We have lots of helpful advice about how to make a claim, including a benefits calculator, in our benefit claim section.
How do I claim additional benefits if I already claim Universal Credit?
If you already claim Universal Credit, you need to use your Universal Credit account to report your change in circumstances.
Do I need to report a change of circumstances to the Council?
Yes. If you receive housing benefit or council tax reduction and there is a change in any of your personal circumstances, please let us know as soon as possible. Visit our change in circumstances section to find out more.
Is any other type of help available from the Council?
Yes. As part of our support package for local residents during the coronavirus pandemic, if you already receive council tax reduction you will receive up to £150 off your council tax bill this year. All working-age residents who are already eligible for extra support through our council tax reduction scheme will automatically receive this discount.
If you already receive council tax reduction you do not need to take any action, the extra help will be added automatically, you do not need to apply for it. You will be sent a confirmation letter and adjusted council tax bill shortly.
If you are affected financially by coronavirus and you are already claiming council tax reduction, or you have claimed but not yet received your assessment, you will not be pursued for non-payment of council tax.
There are also 3 additional schemes that offer financial support that you may be able to apply for:
There are also a range of organisations in Hackney providing help and support to people affected financially by coronavirus. Visit our support services map to find out more.
Benefits contact line
You can contact our information line on 020 8356 3399 Mon to Fri 9am – 5pm. A member of our team can talk to you about your situation and provide tailored help and guidance.