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Millions of Universal Credit claimants in the UK are set to benefit from 12 incredible freebies and discounts this summer, worth up to £10,118.
From council tax support to free white goods, help with travel, and maternity grants, these financial lifelines are designed to ease the burden of rising costs during the warmer months.
If you’re receiving Universal Credit, whether you’re employed, unemployed, or unable to work, you could be eligible for one or more of the following support schemes.
What Is Universal Credit?
Universal Credit is a monthly payment (or twice monthly in Scotland) designed to support those on low incomes, out of work, or unable to work. It is gradually replacing previous benefits like Housing Benefit, Income Support, and Jobseeker’s Allowance.
12 Freebies and Support Available in Summer 2025
Here is a full breakdown of the 12 support options available to eligible claimants:
| Benefit or Discount | Estimated Value | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Household Support Fund | Up to £500 | One-off payments for emergencies from local authorities |
| Discounted Days Out | £108 | Cheap tickets to top attractions like London Zoo, Eden Project, Tower of London |
| Healthy Start Scheme | £442/year | Prepaid card for milk, fruit, veg for young children and pregnant women |
| Help to Save Bonus | £1,200 | 50% government bonus on savings over four years |
| Water Bill Discounts | Up to £173 | Reduced bills through low-income tariffs with providers like Affinity Water |
| Free Prescriptions and Healthcare | Up to £119/year | NHS prescriptions free for qualifying low-income households |
| Discounted Broadband and Mobile Tariffs | £290/year | Social tariffs from top UK internet and mobile providers |
| Council Tax Reduction | Up to £4,300 | Up to 100% reduction based on income and local council scheme |
| Energy Bill Help | Up to £2,000 | Hardship grants and matched payments from providers like British Gas |
| Sure Start Maternity Grant | £500 | One-off payment for first-time expectant mothers |
| Jobcentre Travel & Work Support | Up to £150 | Help with travel to interviews, job training, tools, and childcare |
| Cheap Gym Memberships | £336/year | Discounted Better Health national gym memberships |
How to Access These Freebies
1. Household Support Fund
Offered through local councils. Some offer direct grants up to £500 for urgent needs like food and utility bills.
2. Discounted Days Out
Universal Credit claimants can enjoy £3 tickets at London Zoo, £1 tickets at York Castle Museum, and free or heavily discounted entry at numerous attractions.
3. Healthy Start Scheme
Families with children under four or pregnant individuals receive £4.25 per week via a prepaid card for healthy food and vitamins.
4. Help to Save
Eligible claimants can save up to £50 per month, earning a 50% bonus paid by the government after 2 and 4 years.
5. Water Bill Assistance
Providers like Affinity Water offer low-income tariffs, reducing bills to as low as £95.80 annually.
6. Free NHS Prescriptions
If you earn £435 or less, or £935 with children or limited capability, you may get NHS prescriptions completely free.
7. Broadband & Mobile Discounts
Providers such as BT, Virgin Media, and Vodafone offer social tariffs, saving claimants an average of £24 per month.
8. Council Tax Support
Depending on your area and income, you could reduce or eliminate your council tax bill, saving up to £4,300 annually.
9. Energy Bill Support
British Gas and ScottishPower offer grants worth up to £2,000 to help customers in arrears or facing hardship.
10. Pregnancy Grant
Apply for the £500 Sure Start Maternity Grant using form SF100 from 11 weeks before your due date until 6 months after birth.
11. Travel & Job Support
Apply at your local Jobcentre for the Flexible Support Fund or a Jobcentre Plus Travel Discount Card, saving up to 50% on travel.
12. Gym Membership Discounts
The Better Health membership offers year-long access at major discounts to those on Universal Credit, saving up to £336 per year.
Who Qualifies?
If you are receiving Universal Credit, you could qualify for most of the above. Additional conditions such as income thresholds, disability, pregnancy, or children in your care may apply for specific schemes.
These 12 financial support schemes offer over £10,000 worth of real-life help for Universal Credit claimants during summer 2025.
With rising costs hitting households hard, taking advantage of these benefits can ease daily expenses and give you access to vital services.
FAQs
Do I need to apply for each freebie separately?
Yes. Each scheme has its own application process and eligibility requirements. Contact your local council or Jobcentre for help.
Are these benefits available to all Universal Credit recipients?
Most are available to all, but some depend on income level, household composition, or health/pregnancy status.
Can I claim all 12 benefits at the same time?
Yes, if you meet the criteria for each. Many of these benefits are stackable and designed to support multiple needs.