Give feedback on this page

Each year the Government issues guideline figures indicating the amount people require to meet their basic needs.

These figures vary depending on a person's circumstances. The income of a person claiming benefit is compared to the Government's figure, and if it is the same, or less, then they will normally received 100% benefit. If it is more then the amount of weekly benefit is reduced by 20p for every extra £1 of income.

The amount of benefit may also be reduced if there are 'non-dependant' persons living in the household, for example children over the age of 18.

The regulations governing the calculation of benefit are very complex and because of this the Council needs detailed information about a person, and their household's circumstances, before a calculation can be made. If you think that you could qualify for benefit you should complete an application form.