DWP Updates Universal Credit Guidance for Families with Children

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has released updated guidance on Universal Credit for families, highlighting the extra financial support available if you are responsible for looking after a child.

Under the new guidance, Universal Credit provides an additional amount to help support children who normally live with you. This payment applies to your first and second children. For third or subsequent children, extra payments are only provided in specific circumstances.

You can receive this additional support until August 31st following your child’s 16th birthday. However, payments will stop if your child leaves full-time, non-advanced education or approved training, no longer lives with you, enters local council care (with the exception of respite care), or is in prison or custody awaiting trial or sentencing.

Support continues for young people aged 16 to 19 if they remain in full-time, non-advanced education—such as GCSEs, A levels, T levels, Scottish Highers, SVQs, or NVQs up to level 3—or participate in an approved unpaid training course that is not part of a job contract. Education must be full-time, defined as at least 12 hours per week of lessons and practical work during term time, and does not need to lead to a formal qualification.

Note that payments do not cover young people enrolled in advanced courses or training funded by their employer or included in a job contract, such as apprenticeships. If unsure whether your child’s training qualifies, it is advisable to check directly with the training provider. Any changes in your child’s education or training status can impact the amount of Universal Credit you receive.

Payments for eligible young people continue until August 31st after their 19th birthday, ensuring ongoing support while they complete their education or training.