Publication date: 09.02.2026
3 years of experience in the legal field in England; specialized in property purchase and sale transactions; refinancing; change of property ownership (Transfer of Equity).
Ukrainians residing in the United Kingdom can receive social assistance and social support from the government to cover housing costs, healthcare support, and basic living needs. The main types of support include Housing Benefit, Universal Credit, family assistance, as well as access to healthcare through the NHS system. Eligibility for social payments for Ukrainians depends on residency status, age, income, household composition, and other circumstances.
For certain groups, such as families with children, people with disabilities, or temporarily displaced Ukrainians, additional payments or enhanced allowances are provided. Social payments may include partial rent coverage, monthly payments under Universal Credit, and healthcare benefits. Housing Benefit allows low-income households to receive support for housing costs, while Universal Credit provides broader social support, including housing payments and assistance for families.
Question
Who is eligible for social assistance, and how is the payment amount determined?
Answer
Housing Benefit is available to tenants who pay market rent and belong to the category of low-income households. Universal Credit is available to working-age Ukrainians with low or moderate income, as well as to families with children or carers.
The amount of assistance is determined based on the following criteria:
- Income and savings;
- Household size;
- Age and employment status;
- Rent level and the property’s tax band in the region.
If circumstances change (income increase, moving house, change in household composition), it is necessary to notify the local council or social service; otherwise, penalties or backdated charges may apply.
Process of Applying for Social Assistance
Ukrainians who are eligible for payments must submit an application online or through the local council, including supporting documents:
- Proof of income;
- Tenancy agreement or proof of residence;
- Documents confirming household composition;
- Medical certificates or disability documents (if applicable).
The local council or government portal reviews the information and decides on the payment amount. Payments may include:
- Partial coverage of rent through Housing Benefit;
- Additional allowances for families with children, people with disabilities, and other eligible groups;
- Monthly payments under Universal Credit;
- Access to healthcare for those in need.
If the applicant disagrees with the decision or receives a refusal, they have the right to submit an appeal to the local council or directly through the Universal Credit government service.
Important Documents
To confirm eligibility for social payments, it is important to have:
- Proof of income;
- Tenancy agreement or proof of residence;
- Documents confirming household composition;
- Medical or social certificates (if applicable).
In complex situations, it is recommended to consult a social law specialist in the United Kingdom who can help correctly complete the application and ensure maximum payments without errors.
Question
What should be done in case of delayed payments or errors in social assistance and social support?
Answer
If arrears arise or there is an error, you should immediately contact the local council or the Universal Credit contact center to clarify and correct the issue. It is possible to arrange a deferment or partial compensation. In cases of refusal or unlawful actions, it is recommended to seek advice from a social law solicitor or a Housing Benefit/Universal Credit consultant.
Social assistance for Ukrainians in the United Kingdom, including Housing Benefit and Universal Credit, is a key mechanism for supporting low-income households. Timely contact with the local council, correct completion of documents, verification of income and household composition, as well as monitoring of payments and access to healthcare, helps to avoid overpayments and disputes. In case of disputed decisions, it is important not to delay submitting an appeal and, if necessary, to involve a specialist. This ensures the protection of rights, reduces financial burden, and provides confidence in lawful access to social support.
