Moving to Universal Credit
If you are of working age and receive certain benefits such as Employment Support Allowance (ESA) or Housing Benefit, over the next few months you may receive a letter from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) inviting you to apply for Universal Credit.
Universal Credit is replacing a number of existing benefits. If you receive a letter from the DWP, it is very important you read it carefully as you will need to apply for Universal Credit by a certain date. If you don’t make an application by this date, your existing benefits will stop.
If you need help to make an application, the letter will give details of where you can get assistance. Moving to Universal Credit is nothing to be worried about and some residents might find they receive more financial support via Universal Credit.
Household Support Fund / Crisis and Resilience Fund.
The Crisis and Resilience Fund has replaced the Household Support Fund from April 2026. This means St Albans District Council is no longer able to support residents with supermarket or fuel vouchers. If you are experiencing financial difficulties or need additional support with the cost of living, you can contact Citizens Advice. They can provide guidance on budgeting and managing debt, and may be able to refer you to the Crisis and Resilience Fund for financial assistance.
In St Albans Citizens Advice is based at the Council offices and can be contacted on 01727 811118, or via their website: citizensadvicestalbans.org.uk/contact-us/
