The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has officially confirmed that there will be no additional financial support schemes introduced in 2025, a move that has left millions of low-income households and pensioners in uncertainty. As inflation continues to impact day-to-day costs and the cost of living crisis shows no signs of ending, this announcement has triggered concerns among vulnerable groups across the UK.
While many expected extra payments or new winter support initiatives, the DWP’s confirmation means people will need to look harder at what’s already available. The good news? There are still several lesser-known benefits and support schemes that many UK residents are missing out on.
If you’re struggling financially or unsure whether you’re claiming everything you’re eligible for, now is the time to take a closer look.
Why Is There No Extra Support in 2025?
In previous years, the DWP introduced temporary support payments such as Cost of Living Payments, Winter Fuel Support, and Household Support Fund extensions. These were aimed at helping people through tough economic periods. However, in 2025, the government has decided not to renew or extend these schemes.
This decision is believed to be part of a wider effort to cut public spending, even though many families still face high energy bills, rent increases, and grocery inflation. With a general election on the horizon, some experts believe there may be political reasons behind the pause in new support.
What It Means For Benefit Claimants
For those relying on Universal Credit, PIP, State Pension, or Carer’s Allowance, the absence of any additional payments in 2025 could mean even more pressure on already stretched budgets. Without the £299 Cost of Living Payment or energy subsidies, claimants may be forced to choose between essentials.
That’s why it’s more important than ever to explore lesser-known benefits and check eligibility for local schemes that may not have received much attention in the media.
Council Tax Reduction Could Save You Hundreds
Many low-income households don’t realise they could be paying too much council tax. If you’re on a low income, claiming benefits, or live alone, you might qualify for a Council Tax Reduction.
Every local authority in the UK offers its own scheme, and savings can vary – but in some cases, residents have saved over £500 a year. You’ll need to apply through your local council, and eligibility depends on your income, savings, and household circumstances.
Attendance Allowance For Over-65s
If you are over State Pension age and have a physical or mental disability that affects your day-to-day life, you might be eligible for Attendance Allowance. Many people wrongly assume this benefit is only for those who need a carer – that’s not true.
Attendance Allowance offers up to £108.55 per week (at higher rate) and is completely non-taxable. You don’t even need to have a formal diagnosis in some cases – what matters is how your condition affects your daily life.
Warm Home Discount Still Available
Although there’s no broad energy bill support in 2025, the Warm Home Discount Scheme is still in place. If you’re on certain benefits like Pension Credit or Universal Credit, you could automatically receive a £150 discount on your electricity bill during winter.
Many households don’t realise this discount is applied directly by energy suppliers and doesn’t require a manual claim in most cases. It’s worth checking with your supplier if you’ve been included for the 2025–2026 winter cycle.
Housing Benefit For Certain Tenants
While Universal Credit has replaced Housing Benefit in most cases, some groups can still claim it separately. This includes pensioners, people in supported housing, and some with temporary accommodation.
If you fall into any of these categories, make sure you’re not missing out on this essential support. In some cases, full rent coverage is available.
Carer’s Allowance Is Still Underclaimed
More than 1.3 million people in the UK provide unpaid care to someone with disabilities or health issues, yet thousands of them don’t claim Carer’s Allowance. If you care for someone at least 35 hours a week, you could be entitled to £81.90 per week.
It doesn’t matter if you live with them or not. However, it can affect other benefits, so it’s important to check how it interacts with things like Universal Credit or Income Support.
Free NHS Help For Low-Income Families
If you’re on benefits or a low income, you could qualify for free NHS prescriptions, free dental care, free eye tests, and even help with transport to hospital.
You can check your eligibility using the NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS) and apply online. If approved, you’ll receive a HC2 certificate which covers most medical costs. Thousands miss this help every year simply because they didn’t know it existed.
Pension Credit – Still Widely Missed
Despite repeated government campaigns, around 850,000 eligible pensioners still don’t claim Pension Credit. This benefit can top up your weekly income to £218.15 (single) or £332.95 (couple) and may unlock other benefits like Housing Benefit or free TV licence for over-75s.
The application process is quick and can be done by phone or online. If you know someone over pension age, encourage them to check – it could dramatically improve their standard of living.
Budgeting Loans And Grants
If you’re already claiming income-related benefits, you could be eligible for a Budgeting Loan. This can help with things like furniture, moving costs, or essential clothing. It’s interest-free, and repayments are taken from your benefits automatically.
In Scotland, a similar support option is available through the Scottish Welfare Fund.
Some councils also offer crisis grants or hardship support, especially during winter or emergency situations. These are often under-promoted, so it’s worth checking your local council’s website regularly.
Are You Missing Out?
Many UK residents are unaware of the help they’re eligible for. The key is to check regularly, especially after life events like illness, job loss, retirement, or caring responsibilities. A quick eligibility check could unlock hundreds or even thousands of pounds in unclaimed benefits each year.
Free tools like Entitledto.co.uk or Turn2Us.org.uk can help you get a personalised benefits check in just a few minutes. You might be surprised at what you qualify for.
The Bottom Line
With no extra support announced by the DWP for 2025, it’s essential that individuals and families make the most of every available benefit. Many of these schemes are under-claimed and could offer vital financial breathing space during tough times.
If you or someone you know is struggling, now is the time to act, check, and claim what’s available. Don’t assume you’re not eligible – the system is complex, and even small changes in your circumstances could open new doors.
