Benefits

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If a woman leaves her abusive partner, there are a number of benefits she may be eligible to claim in her own right. These are:

Income Support
This is a means-tested benefit that can be claimed if you have no income or a very low income. It is usually claimed by people aged 18 to 59 who have children, are too sick to work or have caring responsibilities. If you do not fall within these criteria, you may be able to claim Jobseekers Allowance (application forms are available at your local benefit office).

Housing Benefit
This helps people on low incomes to pay their rent, and both private and Council tenants can claim it. The following link will help you find out more about these benefits - housing benefits.

The amount of housing benefit you receive will depend on your income, and if you receive Income Support, you will normally receive full housing benefit. However, if you rent in the private sector, the housing benefit may not cover all your rent.

Tax Credits
There are two types of tax credits: working tax credit and child tax credit.

Working tax credit provides added financial support for workers on a low income (whether employed or self employed), is paid directly into your bank account and can be claimed even if you do not have any children.

Child tax credit provides support for families and carers responsible for at least one child or young person and is paid in addition to any child benefit you might be receiving. Remember, you can claim child tax credit even if you are not working.

The Tax Credits website will give you more information on how to apply for these

Social Fund
Jobcentre Plus have a Social Fund which you can apply to for financial help. There are three types of applications: a crisis loan, a budgeting loan or a community care grant. Crisis loans and budgeting loans have to be paid back, but a community care grant does not.

You can also get information and advice on benefits available to you by contacting Advice Works

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