Managing finances

Personal Independence Payment is money to help with extra living costs if you have a long-term illness, disability, or mental health condition that makes everyday tasks or getting around difficult. You can get PIP even if you are working or studying, and it won’t affect most other benefits. You’ll need an assessment to work out how your condition affects you.

Find out more and apply: Personal Independence Payment (PIP): What PIP is for - GOV.UK.

Universal Credit is a monthly payment to help with living costs. You may be able to get it if you’re on a low income, out of work, or unable to work due to illness or disability. If you are under 18, there are special rules, but many young people aged 18+ can apply. The amount you get depends on your circumstances, and it replaces several older benefits.

Find out more and apply: Universal Credit: What Universal Credit is - GOV.UK

If you’re in higher education (college or university) and have a disability, long-term health condition, mental health condition, or specific learning difficulty (like dyslexia), you could get Disabled Students’ Allowance. This can help pay for things like specialist equipment, non-medical helpers, and extra travel costs. You don’t have to pay it back.

Find out more: Help if you're a student with a learning difficulty, health problem or disability: Disabled Students' Allowance - GOV.UK

Turn2us is a charity that helps people find financial support. Their website has a Benefits Calculator to check what you might be entitled to, and a Grants Search to see if there are charities that can help with costs such as education, training, or living expenses.

Visit: Turn2us

A benefits calculator is an online tool that helps you work out what financial help you could get, based on your circumstances. You’ll need to enter details about your income, rent, savings, and any benefits you already receive. The Turn2us Benefits Calculator is free and confidential.

Use the calculator: Turn2us Benefits Calculator