Find out more about universal credit, housing benefit and Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) changes.

Cost of living support from the government

The government has announced a number of different schemes to help households with the rise in the cost of living. Please see our cost of living support page for more information.

National living wage

The rates from April 2024 are:

  • £11.44 for workers aged 21 and over
  • £8.60 for 18 to 20 year olds
  • £6.40 for under 18s
  • £6.40 for apprentices

Welfare assistance scheme

This is a local scheme, run by Hampshire County Council that replaced the social fund. It aims to provide better information, advice and support to people and families struggling to cope with economic and social challenges, as well as people facing short-term crises. You can find out more about how the scheme could help you on Hampshire County Council's local welfare assistance page.


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