Benefit Updates & Important Changes from April 2026.

It can be very difficult to understand what help and support there is and what to claim, especially with some of the benefits still being delivered by DWP and the introdution of all the new benefits from Social Security Scotland. 

There is over 40 different benefits in total from DWP, Social Security Scotland and Glasgow City Council to help with housing, unemployment, health, bereavement , support for children and much more. With this there is so many changes with benefits merging and new benefits specific to Scotland, it makes it extremely confusing and difficult to navigate and understand. 

We are here to help and support you , we have experienced welfare rights officers available to help you understand what you are entitled to and help you claim. We will also help you challenge unfair decisions, supporting you through the process from the start and will represent you at appeal. 

We have provided some updates on some of the new benefits available from Social Security Scotland and we aim to keep this updated with any changes. 

Changes from April 2026.

Abolition of 2 Child Limit

The UK Governement will end the 2 child limit on Universal Credit and Working Age Housing Benefit.  The policy will allow households with more than 2 children to claim, on average, an addiitonal £3500 per year per child.  This move is crucial in reducing child poverty.

Universal Credit (UC) Limited Capbility for Work Related Activity (LCWRA)

From 6th April 2026 the UK Governement will reduce the UC LCWRA by almost 50%, lowering it to £50 per week (£217.26 per month) for NEW claimants, down from over £400.  Existing claimants will have their current rate frozen rather than reduced, while those with severe, lifelong conditions are exempt.

Remember to Report your Annual Rent Increase to Univesal Credit (UC)

All tenants recieving UC MUST update their housing costs through their online journal immediately after a rent increase takes effect.

You must complete the TO DO before the end of your UC assessment period in April 2026 or you will miss out on the money you are due.

A new "CONFIRM YOUR HOUSING COSTS" message will be in your "TO DO LIST" in April 2025.

If you need help with this please speak to your Housing Officer for assistance.

If you are recieving any Housing Benefit you dont need to do anything. Your Housing Benefit will be automatically updated.

If you wish to speak to a member of the Advice Team for more information on any of these planned changes please get in contact with us.