Support available for those living with hardship

Help is out there if your circumstances have changed

Individuals should apply for Universal Credit online at www.gov.uk/universal-credit as soon as possible.

If you have any problems you should contact Stornoway Jobcentre Plus on 01851 743663/743664.

For applications due to Covid-19 an advance is available immediately following identity verification.

If they have been paying Class 1 National Insurance contributions for the past 2-3 years you may also be entitled to Job Seeker’s Allowance.

If your circumstances have changed you may be eligible for the Council Tax Reduction scheme if you are on a low income and have capital under £16,000.

To apply for council tax reduction visit www.cne-siar.gov.uk/benefits-and-grants.

The Scottish Welfare Fund provides a safety net in a disaster or emergency in the form of a crisis grant, when there is an immediate threat to health or safety.

To apply visit www.cne-siar.gov.uk/benefits-and-grants/scottish-welfare-fund or call 01851 822642 (if you are unable to complete the form).