Help for parents of school-aged children understand what financial help is available, how to access it, and where to turn for support.
Whether you are new to the benefits system or just need a reminder of what is available, we’re here to make things simple – practical information, real-life examples, and trusted guidance – offered with care and sensitivity to the needs of the Jewish community.
Universal Credit is a monthly means-tested payment to help with your living costs. You may be eligible if you are on a low income, out of work, or unable to work due to illness or caring responsibilities, and have less than £16,000 in capital. It replaces several older benefits, including income-related Jobseeker’s Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support, Child and Working Tax Credits, and Housing Benefit (in most cases).
You apply online, and your entitlement may include rent support. You can currently receive additional Universal Credit for up to 2 children, though these amounts can vary depending on their ages and whether they receive a disability benefit. If you are working, you can still claim, though the amount may reduce depending on your earnings.
Entitlement to Universal Credit could mean you are entitled to free prescriptions and help with your utility bills, but this will depend on each household’s individual circumstances.
Child Benefit is paid to anyone responsible for a child under 16 (or under 20 if still in approved education or training). It’s a fixed amount for the eldest child, and a lower amount for additional children.
It is not means-tested, but if you or your partner earn over £60,000, you may have to repay some or all of it through a tax charge.
If you are on a low income or claiming benefits, you may qualify for help with your rent (if not covered by Universal Credit) or a reduction in your Council Tax.
Applications go through your local council, and support varies depending on your household income, savings, and who lives with you.
Children from low-income families may qualify for free school meals. Some councils also offer help with the cost of school uniforms.
Always ask your school or local authority what’s available.
If you are pregnant or have children under 4 and are receiving certain income-based benefits, or have a low household income, you may be able to get help to buy healthy food and milk as part of the Healthy Start scheme.
You could get:
You could also get free vitamin supplements.
You can apply by either: emailing healthy.start@nhsbsa.nhs.uk or calling 0300 330 7010.
This is a means-tested benefit.
These include Statutory Maternity Pay (SMT) if you have been employed for a certain period, Maternity Allowance for those self-employed or recently out of work, and Statutory Paternity Pay.
There may also be Sure Start Maternity Grants available for first-time parents on certain benefits.
Many communities offer confidential financial help through Chesed organisations, Gemach (interest-free loan) schemes, and emergency grants.
These are often accessed via schools, synagogues, or welfare representatives, and are designed to uphold dignity while providing practical support.
Children and adults with autism, ADHD, anxiety disorders, epilepsy, mobility impairments, or medical conditions may qualify. One family shared that PIP enabled their teenage son to travel to school safely and gave them access to Carer’s Allowance.
Receiving DLA or PIP may also unlock other entitlements, such as:
DLA is not means-tested and is based on how much extra care or supervision your child needs compared to others their age.
It has two components:
DLA is often awarded to children with physical, learning, emotional or behavioural conditions—even if not formally diagnosed.
For people 16 and over PIP is made up of two parts:
You are assessed on how much help you need doing everyday tasks such as cooking, bathing, managing medication, or travelling. A points based system is used.
Supporting evidence makes an enormous difference – for example, a letter from your GP, SENCO, support worker, or therapist.
Use a simple monthly budget sheet to track income (wages, benefits, maintenance) and essential outgoings (rent, utilities, food, childcare).
Paperweight can provide you with a template.
If you work freelance or your hours change, base your planning on your lowest expected income.
Try to save any extra in a buffer account for months where income is lower.
Cover basics first: rent, energy, food, travel to work/school.
In Jewish households, budgeting for Shabbat and Yom Tov is important too.
Many communal groups offer support for this – don’t hesitate to ask.
If you’re struggling with debt, don’t suffer in silence.
Paperweight is the only Jewish charity with FCA (Financial Conduct Authority) accreditation, and we can help with the majority of debt related needs – including negotiating with creditors, creating repayment plans, and offering personalised guidance.
Free help is also available from StepChange, National Debtline and Citizens Advice.
Ask your school or synagogue if they run:
Need urgent help?
Call us on 0330 174 4300
Other services we offer include:
For people who want some light-touch help on a regular basis.
Supporting Jewish students and young adults (18–25) as they navigate the challenges of independent life.
Digital drop-in service for people who want to feel more confident online.
To self-refer prior to a telephone assessment, please complete the Self-Referral Form.
Practical help with legal, financial and everyday challenges
Help coping with debt, budgeting and bills, housing, form filling, wills and probate matters.
Informal guidance through the legal maze, typically in civil or family matters.
Helping you get benefits you’re entitled to, such as housing benefit and income support.
Paperweight offers time, guidance, confidentiality, experience and a good deal of common sense.
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