Financial support for residents

Financial support for Southwark residents whose income has been affected by the pandemic including, Universal Credit, Council Tax, rent and loss of income from self-isolation.

COVID-19 support for residents

We know that COVID-19 has increased financial pressure and concerns for many residents. On 1 October 2021, some of the government support from the start of the pandemic ended:

The furlough schemes for employed and self-employed workers closed
The extra £20 being paid to people claiming Universal Credit stopped.

This page provides information about some of the financial support that's still available. It will be regularly updated as more support is confirmed.

Universal Credit payment scheme to help with living costs

If you’re:

unemployed; or
had a sudden loss or interruption of income

due to COVID-19, you may be able to claim benefits to support you and your family. For most working-age people, the benefit you need to claim is Universal Credit.

If you're already claiming Universal Credit report changes in your circumstances now by signing into your Universal Credit account.

Citizens Advice Southwark can help you to claim Universal Credit.

If you have to self-isolate due to COVID-19 and will lose earnings

If you meet certain criteria, you could get financial help if you're told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace and will lose income.

If you’re struggling with rent payments

If you receive Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit, you could get extra financial support through a discretionary housing payment.

Help with Council Tax payments

If you normally pay Council Tax, and are making a claim for Universal Credit due to:

sickness
unemployment; or
income loss

you'll be automatically enrolled for Council Tax Reduction.

When you claim Universal Credit online or by phone, make sure you say you want to claim help with paying Council Tax from Southwark Council.

Homeowners annual and major works service charge payments

If you’re struggling to meet your household’s urgent basic needs

If you’ve had a sudden loss or reduction in income, you can apply for support if you can’t meet your household’s urgent basic needs from the Southwark Emergency Support Scheme (SESS)

Financial support for businesses and self-employed residents

Get information on financial support for businesses or if you’re self-employed.

Other organisations that can provide advice on financial help

Page last updated: 30 September 2021

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Financial support for residents

COVID-19 support for residents

Universal Credit payment scheme to help with living costs

If you have to self-isolate due to COVID-19 and will lose earnings

If you’re struggling with rent payments

Help with Council Tax payments

Homeowners annual and major works service charge payments

If you’re struggling to meet your household’s urgent basic needs

Financial support for businesses and self-employed residents

Other organisations that can provide advice on financial help

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