Ashley Harbor
As the UK government prepares for major welfare reforms, Universal Credit claimants are being urged to take advantage of seven valuable freebies and discounts worth up to £7,217, handed out by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
With the Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment Bill proposing to freeze incapacity benefits and slash new payments by nearly half from 2026-27, the window for accessing these financial aids could be closing soon.
The proposed changes may affect nearly 3 million people by the end of the decade.
Before the cuts take effect, families on Universal Credit are being encouraged to claim lesser-known perks that could provide much-needed financial relief.
Full Breakdown: Seven Freebies and Discounts Worth £7,217
| Support Type | Value | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Sure Start Maternity Grant | £500 | One-off, non-repayable payment for new parents |
| NHS Healthy Start Scheme | £500 | Prepaid card for fresh food and baby essentials |
| Discretionary Housing Payment | £2,578 | Additional rent support through local authorities |
| Childcare Reimbursement | £1,739 | Up to 85% of childcare costs covered for working parents |
| Free School Uniform Grant | £200 | Council-run schemes to help purchase school clothing |
| Free School Meals | £500 | Provided from September 2026 to all eligible children |
| Help to Save Bonus | £1,200 | Government bonus of 50% on savings through the Help to Save scheme |
1. Sure Start Maternity Grant – £500
Expectant parents on Universal Credit can claim the Sure Start Maternity Grant, a £500 one-time, non-repayable payment. It is typically available to:
- Parents expecting their first child
- Families having twins or triplets when they already have children
Applications must be made within 11 weeks before the due date or within 6 months after the child is born using the SF100 form.
2. NHS Healthy Start Scheme – Up to £500
The Healthy Start Scheme supports families with children under four or pregnant women by providing prepaid cards that can be used to purchase:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Milk
- Formula and other essentials
Eligible applicants receive weekly top-ups, amounting to £442–£500 per year depending on pregnancy and family size.
3. Discretionary Housing Payment – £2,578
If you struggle to pay rent even with Universal Credit, you may be eligible for a Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) worth up to £2,578 annually. This non-repayable grant can be used for:
- Covering rent shortfalls
- Paying deposits for new accommodations
- Assisting with rent in advance
Apply through your local council.
4. Childcare Support – Up to £1,739
Universal Credit can cover up to 85% of registered childcare costs:
- Up to £1,014/month for one child
- Up to £1,739/month for two or more children
Payments are made after childcare is provided, but advance claims for up to three months are allowed if you’re starting a new job or increasing hours.
5. Free School Uniforms – £200
Parents can receive up to £200 toward school uniform costs at the start of the academic year. This grant is council-dependent, so eligibility and amounts vary by region.
Check with your local authority for application windows and documentation requirements.
6. Free School Meals – Worth £500
Starting September 2026, every child whose parent is on Universal Credit will be eligible for free school meals, worth an average of £500 per year per child. This move aims to reduce child food insecurity and help working families.
7. Help to Save – Bonus Up to £1,200
The Help to Save scheme lets you deposit up to £50 a month for four years. The government matches 50% of what you save, offering a maximum bonus of £1,200.
Even if you save less than the full £2,400 over four years, the bonus will reflect your contributions.
Why It Matters Now
The DWP’s perks and grants come at a critical time, with major benefit cuts on the horizon under the Labour Party’s welfare reform plans. If passed, the upcoming Universal Credit and PIP changes could drastically reduce support for new claimants.
Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall described the reform as a necessary measure to preserve the system while promoting opportunity and dignity. However, many families are being urged to act now to secure the full value of these support programs before new eligibility rules tighten access.
The DWP is offering over £7,200 in support to Universal Credit claimants before proposed benefit cuts take effect.
From childcare help to rent relief and savings bonuses, these offers provide urgent financial relief. Eligible households should claim now before the government’s welfare overhaul reduces future entitlement opportunities.
FAQs
Who qualifies for these freebies and discounts?
Anyone currently receiving Universal Credit or related benefits may qualify for one or more of the support options.
Do I need to repay any of these perks?
No, all listed programs provide non-repayable financial assistance, though some require formal application or eligibility checks.
How do I apply for these benefits?
Each benefit has a separate application process. Use your council’s website, HMRC, or the DWP’s online portal to find forms and instructions.