North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson and South Swindon MP Robert Buckland have welcomed the news that millions of UK households will receive £301 directly from the Department for Work and Pensions between 25 April and 17 May.
This is the first of three payments totalling up to £900 for those eligible and on means-tested benefits, such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit, in 2023/24. This follows the £650 Cost of Living Payment made to over eight million people in 2022.
In addition to this, there will also be further payments worth £150 for eligible disabled people and £300 for pensioners due later this year, meaning the most vulnerable can receive up to £1,350 in direct payments.
Across Swindon 23,800 households will be eligible for the means-tested Cost of Living Payments, and 19,400 individuals will be eligible for the Disability Cost Of Living Payment.
The £301 payment will be sent out automatically and directly to recipients, meaning those eligible do not need to apply or do anything to receive it.
These payments will all be tax-free, will not count towards the benefit cap or have any impact on existing benefit awards.
The announcement builds on other measures announced by the Government to help people tackle the rise in the cost of living, including extending the Energy Price Guarantee to hold bills down until energy prices fall; raising the National Living Wage to £10.42; putting an end to the prepayment meter premium; and delivering a plan that will more than halve inflation this year – ensuring everyone’s incomes go further.
Justin Tomlinson MP and Robert Buckland MP said: “I know that the last few months have been very difficult with the current cost of living increases. I am delighted that the Government is stepping up and continuing to provide assistance to some of the most vulnerable people.
The Government will continue to provide support to people while we weather the current economic situation, and ensure that every effort is made to ensure a more positive outlook economically.”
