Worried about switching to Universal Credit? We’re here to help. | News

Universal Credit (UC) is a government benefit that replaces older benefits with a single monthly payment. It’s designed to simplify the system, but the move to UC can feel daunting - especially if you’re already managing financial pressures.

We’re here to make that change easier. We provide practical, one-to-one support to help you manage UC. That includes help with making claims, appealing decisions, budgeting, identifying unclaimed support, and setting up rent payments.

Our goal is to reduce the stress of switching to UC and help you stay in control of your money.

Read on to find out how we supported Graham*, a customer receiving older benefits, who received a letter requiring him to claim UC or risk losing his payments.

*Name changed for privacy.

Graham’s story: getting the right support through Universal Credit

The situation

Graham approached us after receiving a UC migration letter from the Department for Work and Pensions. He was extremely worried about what the change would mean for his finances.

In our first meeting, we looked closely at his situation and agreed on the best date for him to move over to UC – making sure he wouldn’t lose out financially during the change.

We also found that Graham hadn’t been reassessed for disability-related support in over ten years, despite his health worsening significantly. On top of that, he was struggling with council tax repayments that were too high for his income, and a large water debt that had built up after his mother passed away.

How we helped

We worked with Graham to put together a full support plan. 

• We timed his UC move to protect his income.
• We arranged a new health assessment so that his disability-related support could reflect his true needs.
• We worked with the Council Tax Office to agree a repayment plan that was affordable for Graham.
• We supported his application to the United Utilities Trust Fund, which helps customers reduce water debt.

Outcomes

Graham moved onto Universal Credit smoothly and without financial loss. More importantly, the wider support gave him stability and peace of mind.

His disability benefit was reassessed, his council tax repayments became manageable, and 80% of his water debt was cleared. Together, these changes eased the financial and emotional strain he’d been living with.

Would you appreciate support?

If you’ve received a Universal Credit migration letter or are worried about how UC might affect you, we’re here to help.

Our Money Advice Team provides confidential support with benefits, budgeting, and financial wellbeing. 

You can also visit one of our UCAN centres for face-to-face help, internet access, job search support, training, and community activities. 

Phone us on 01204 328000 or visit our Universal Credit support page at  www.boltonathome.org.uk/universal-credit to find out more.