Millions of Ukrainians are receiving Universal Credit: 19 ways to get thousands of pounds in support.

According to The Sun: Millions of households receiving universal credit are missing out on thousands of pounds in extra support, including free food, savings bonuses, and council tax discounts.

With high food inflation, rising energy prices, and the accumulating costs of back-to-school preparations, September is a critical month for families facing financial difficulties. It's important to check what help is available right now.

Many of these programs do not require repayment, yet millions of people have not taken advantage of them.

In total, these programs could bring in over £17,000 over 12 months if a person qualifies for all of them.

Here’s an overview of the biggest savings opportunities available in September, including who can receive them, how much they’re worth, and how to apply.

1. Household Support Fund – up to £500

Local councils offer emergency support for essential needs such as food, appliances, and energy bills.

The Household Support Fund is available until March 2026, but terms and payments may vary.

For example, Brent Council offers up to £500 for struggling families, Doncaster Council pays between £100 and £300, and Ribble Valley Council provides supermarket vouchers ranging from £200 to £500.

Do your research on your local council’s website, searching for 'Household Support Fund' to apply.

2. Heating Bill Discount – £150

Low-income families can receive a £150 discount on winter electricity bills from October to March.

Most people should not need to apply, as energy suppliers will automatically apply the discount for those who meet the criteria.

Check your eligibility at www.gov.uk/the-warm-home-discount-scheme.

3. Cheap Internet and Mobile Tariffs – save £196 a year

There are special 'social tariffs' for people receiving benefits.

Virgin Media offers a package for £12.50 a month, BT Home Essentials for £15 a month, and Voxi for unlimited data at £10 a month.

With the average internet bill being £26.39, switching to a social tariff can save about £196 a year.

4. Free School Meals – save £503.50 per child

Families receiving universal credit with an annual income below £7,400 (excluding benefits) can apply for free school meals.

The savings are impressive – the average cost of a school meal is £2.65, allowing parents to save £503.50 a year for each child.

In Scotland, children in primary classes 1-5 receive free school meals regardless of income.

5. Council Tax Discounts – up to £2,280

Households receiving universal credit can significantly reduce their council tax bills by 100%.

The average bill in Band D is now £2,280, and that is how much families can save.

Some councils, like Manchester, cover the full bill, while others, like Bristol, reduce it by up to 90%.

6. Help with Water Bills – save hundreds

Water suppliers offer tariff caps or special discounts for households receiving benefits.

Affinity Water caps bills at £119.50 a year, details at www.affinitywater.co.uk.

United Utilities provides a 50% discount for certain families, more information can be found at www.unitedutilities.com.

7. Energy Grants – up to £1,500

Several suppliers offer grants to clear energy debts or cover bills.

British Gas Energy Trust provides up to £1,500, even if the applicant is not their customer. Applications can be made at www.britishgasenergytrust.org.uk.

8. Free Prescriptions, Dental Care, and Eye Tests

Many universal credit recipients can get free prescriptions, NHS treatment, and eye tests.

This can save around £10 per prescription and £25.80 for a dental check-up, leading to significant savings over the year.

9. 'Help to Save' Scheme – earn £300 a year

The government pays a 50% bonus on savings through a 'Help to Save' account.

10. School Uniform Grants – up to £200

Several councils offer grants to cover the costs of school uniforms.

11. Free or Discounted Travel

Jobcentre Plus offers travel discount cards of up to 50% on train travel.

12. Flexible Support Fund

This provides additional funds from employment centres to help people return to work.

13. Maternity Grants – £500

Parents expecting their first child can receive a one-off grant of £500.

14. Healthy Start Vouchers – worth £442 a year

Pregnant women and parents of children under four on universal credit can receive prepaid cards to buy healthy food and milk.

15. Funeral Support – up to £1,000

Families on universal credit organizing a funeral can receive up to £1,000 to cover costs.

16. Legal Aid

Universal credit recipients may qualify for legal aid in cases of domestic violence, housing disputes, or immigration issues.

17. Childcare Support – up to £1,769 a month

Working parents on universal credit can reclaim 85% of their childcare costs.

18. Free Childcare Hours – worth £7,500

This month, working families may be eligible for up to 30 hours of free childcare.

19. Glasses and Eye Tests – save £233

Universal credit recipients can have free eye tests every two years and receive vouchers for glasses or contact lenses based on a prescription.

Thus, August has proven to be an important month for families in need of financial assistance. Given the tough economic conditions, the possibility of receiving these benefits may provide significant support for many Ukrainian families. It's crucial not only to be aware of the available programs but also to take advantage of them in time to maximize benefits and reduce financial burdens before the new school year.