Message from South Cambridgeshire District Council
Changes are being made to the Universal Credit system in October 2021 which will see the temporary £20 a week increase to payments coming to an end. The £20 per week increase was introduced by the Government in response to the Coronavirus pandemic. This scheme officially ends on 6 October when Universal Credit payments will return to their pre-Coronavirus levels. With that in mind, we thought it would be useful to set out the support that is available from us, to residents who may be facing financial hardship. When residents find the transition back to previous Universal Credit payment levels difficult, or struggle to maintain their income, Council Tax, or rent payments generally, they should contact us as soon as possible so that we can discuss the support that we may be able to provide. There are a range of options for those struggling financially, including:
- Discretionary Housing Payments which provide financial support towards housing costs. You can apply for these Discretionary Housing Payments
- The Council Tax hardship fund, which aims to provide support to those that are struggling financially because of Coronavirus. You can apply for this Hardship Fund
- Support and advice from our Welfare and Money Maximisation Officer, Lucy Tompkins, who can be contacted via [email protected]
- Signposting to external support and advice agencies
Acting early is key. If you are struggling financially, or believe you soon will be, contact us as soon as possible so that we can try to help prevent the problems from escalating.
Email our Benefits team if you have specific questions, or call 03450 450 061