There are numerous charities that may be able to offer help to those whose income has been affected by the Coronavirus.
The best way of of finding what help is available is by doing a search on-line. The Turn2us website also has a grant finder -
click here.
But please be aware many charities have been receiving a larger number of applications than they can cope with so have stopped taking new applications (although this may be a temporary measure)
Where someone on benefit receives a charitable payment they may be worried about the impact it may have on their benefits.
For Universal Credit
Any charitable payment is disregarded as income, but may count as capital. However it would only affect the amount of a claimant's UC payment if it took their total savings/capital over £6,000 - which is unlikely!
For Housing Benefit
Any charitable payment is disregarded as income, but does count as capital. However it would only affect the amount of a claimant's HB award if it took their total savings/capital over £6,000 - which is unlikely!
Tax Credits
As it is not a taxable payment it will not count as income, but may count as capital. However it would only affect the amount of a claimant's Tax Credit payment if it took their total annual interest gained on their savings above £300.