Seven hundred Torfaen residents in Torfaen will get an extra £4 a week in their discretionary housing payment until March 2023.

Torfaen Council has brought in the increase in response to the end of the temporary uplift of £20 a week for Universal Credit claimants. Universal Credit was increased by £20 a week in April 2020 at the beginning of the pandemic to reduce the impact on those who were out of work or received a low income. In March 2021 the uplift was extended for six months and that has now come to an end.

Torfaen Council shared information to show how claimants’ monthly income would change. A spokesperson said: “It means more than 7,000 people and low-income families in Torfaen who receive Universal Credit will see their payments return to pre-pandemic levels. For example:

• The 2021 payment for those who are single and under 25 – will reduce from £344 to £257.33
• The 2021 payment for those who are single and 25 and over – will reduce from £411.51 to £324.84
• The 2021 payment for a couple who are both under 25 – will reduce from £490.60 to £403.93 (that is a total not an amount for each person)
• The 2021 payment for a couple who are both 25 and over – will reduce from £596.58 to £509.91 (that is a total not an amount for each person)

“Amounts may vary slightly when the reduction kicks in.”

Increase in discretionary housing payments (DHP)

The council has decided to increase the amount they pay to people claiming DHP by £4 a week until March 2023 reporting that it will help around 700 local residents

Council leader Anthony Hunt said: “We want to take action where we can to help those in Torfaen it will impact upon. We pledge to increase the level of discretionary housing payments to the families impacted by this cut who are in receipt of ongoing payments by £4 per week, to help offset the impact of the cut in their income.

“It will also extend the money available in the scheme for new applicants.”

Apply for Discretionary Housing Payments

If you need to apply for discretionary housing payment, click here or download the Torfaen Council app. If you already receive a payment, there is no need to reapply.

Council tax reduction and free school meals

Visit the council’s website to apply for other financial support, including free school meals and council tax reduction.

Support to find a job

If you would like support in finding a job, or changing your jobs, fill in this referral form and the council’s employability and Communities for Work teams will contact you.

Benefits advice from Torfaen Council

Email [email protected] or telephone 01495 766430.

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