BLOG: Navigating Benefit Changes Together

Supporting Rural Communities in Derbyshire

Supporting Rural Communities in Derbyshire

Living and working in rural Derbyshire, I see how difficult it can be for individuals and families to stay on top of benefit changes—especially when facing financial hardship. That’s why I want to highlight some key updates from Derbyshire County Council’s Welfare Rights Service that could make a real difference.

Free School Meals Protection

If your child qualified for free school meals since April 2018, they’ll remain eligible until the end of the 2025/26 school year. From 2026/27, all households on Universal Credit will be able to apply—regardless of income. But don’t forget: meals won’t be given automatically, so applications are essential.

From 2025/26, pension-age households earning under £35,000 may qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment—even without receiving Pension Credit. This means up to £300 to help with heating costs.

Starting April 2025, the maximum deduction for debt repayments from Universal Credit will drop from 25% to 15%, helping ease financial pressure on many households.

This new fund replaces the Household Support Fund and DHPs, offering long-term help for those facing hardship.

If you’re being moved from legacy benefits to Universal Credit, act quickly—over 20% of people lost entitlement by missing the deadline. Seek independent advice straight away.

More support

To find your nearest food support or pantry project, visit our interactive map.

For advice on benefits, debt, or housing, contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau—they’re there to help.

Let’s ensure no one in our rural communities gets left behind.

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

eNewsletter signup for footer of all pages

This field is hidden when viewing the form

Next Steps: Sync an Email Add-On

To get the most out of your form, we suggest that you sync this form with an email add-on. To learn more about your email add-on options, visit the following page (https://www.gravityforms.com/the-8-best-email-plugins-for-wordpress-in-2020/). Important: Delete this tip before you publish the form.
Name(Required)
Email