People claiming Universal Credits can benefit from a host of discounts aside from their weekly payments. From cheaper prescriptions and dental treatment to lower travel fares, depending on your circumstances you could be helped by a long list of perks.
People are struggling up and down the country as the cost of living crisis has seen soaring food, energy and mortgage bills. This means households are looking to claw back money wherever they can, including their monthly travel expenses.
And there is a lot of help on offer, from discount cards to grants. Below we have listed what each age group can claim:
READ MORE: £350 DWP payment for 'thousands' who don't claim benefits like Universal Credit
Support for the unemployed
Recipients on Universal Credit and in some cases Jobseeker's Allowance can get discounts on travel costs if they apply for a JobCentre Plus Travel Discount Card.
This is provided to those unemployed claiming Jobseeker's Allowance or Universal Credit for 3-9 months (18-24 year olds) or 3-12 months (over 25s) can apply through their Work Coach and local Jobcentre Plus.
Other benefit recipients may receive a Jobcentre Plus Travel Discount Card from 3 months of their claim and if they are actively engaged with a Jobcentre Plus adviser. Cardholders are entitled to a 50% discount on selected rail tickets.
Contact your nearest Jobcentre for more information.
Support for young people
Local authorities offer a range of travel support for young people. These include:
Home-to-School Transport
Local authorities currently spend around £1 billion every year providing free transport to and from school. At a minimum this covers pupils travelling more than two miles (for those under eight years of age), pupils travelling more than 3 miles (for those aged 8 or over) and those unable to walk to school due to their Special Educational Needs.
6-19 bursary
The bursary provides support for those aged 16-19 participating in education or training who face additional barriers to staying in education. The most vulnerable young people may be entitled to a bursary of at least £1,200 per year while discretionary bursaries are provided at the discretion of education providers.
Support for pensioners
Senior Railcard
This provides up to 1/3 off rail fares to those aged over 60. It is reported to provide an average saving of £83 per year.
You can buy a Senior Railcard at any National Rail staffed station ticket office or National Rail-licenced Travel Agent. You can do it on the day you are travelling, just ensure the ticket office is open.
Find out more here.
