UK benefits news, with the primary source
Short updates on changes to the benefits system, tied to the primary-source document they came from. Each piece answers four questions: what changed, who it affects, when it takes effect, and what to do.
All news
- Uprating21 April 2026
2026-27 benefit uprating confirmed: what changes in April
The Secretary of State has laid the 2026-27 Social Security Benefits Up-rating Order. Most working-age and disability benefits rise in line with September 2025 CPI (3.8%). State Pension rises by 4.1% under the triple lock.
- Migration18 April 2026
UC managed migration: Q1 2026 statistics show 87% moved, 9% closed, 4% in deadline risk
DWP has published the January-March 2026 managed migration statistics. Of households sent a migration notice, 87% have claimed Universal Credit, 9% had legacy claims closed without claiming UC, and 4% are within the final deadline window.
- Policy10 April 2026
Household Support Fund extended to March 2027 with £742m of further funding
The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed a further year of Household Support Fund funding for England (£742m), covering April 2026 to March 2027. Allocations by upper-tier council will be published within six weeks.
- Scotland28 March 2026
Scottish Child Payment rises to £30 a week from April 2026
Social Security Scotland confirmed the 2026-27 Scottish Child Payment rate at £30 per qualifying child per week, up from £27.15. The annual per-child value rises to £1,560.
Check what applies to you now
Policy changes move eligibility lines. Run the triage tool for a ranked list of benefits you likely qualify for at today's rules.