Money matters
The last 12 months have seen a change in government along with some important changes to our welfare benefits system.
Most notably
The Winter Fuel Payment (WFP) was removed from all but the poorest pensioners, meaning only those receiving Pension Credit received the allowance in 2024. However, in response to mounting pressure from opposition parties and the public, the government has made a U-turn, and all but the wealthiest pensioners will receive WFP in 2025.
Plans to change the eligibility criteria for PIP starting in November require the claimant to score at least four points from a single daily living descriptor to qualify for the daily living component. This only applies to new PIP claimants, and these changes could be subject to further amendments.
People who receive income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) will gradually move over to Universal Credit. All legacy benefits, such as ESA, will end on 31 March 2026.
These changes have meant a significant rise in the number of people seeking support and advice from our Welfare Benefits Advice Service. We have been busier than ever and are pleased to report the following successes for our residents between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025.
households supported to maximise their income.
raised for residents through backdated payments, appeals, and revisions.
households helped with emergency payments to afford food and energy during difficult times.
worth of rent arrears covered for 26 households at risk of losing their homes through Discretionary Housing Payments.
Success stories
A couple were sleeping on sofas, rather than their beds, as their health had declined and they found it difficult to manage the stairs in their home. We successfully applied for disability benefits, as well as Pension Credit, and supported them to move to a ground floor flat better suited to their circumstances.
We supported a young man who needed help moving from ESA to Universal Credit. As a result, we recovered over £20,000 in unpaid premiums, allowing him to pay off debts and save for a secure future.
If you have any questions about your benefits, PIP, Winter Fuel Payment or any other enquiries, don’t hesitate to contact us by on 020 8680 7532 or freephone 0800 054 6710. Or email income@ccha.biz to speak to Jane and Evelyn.