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Welfare benefits

Thousands of people in Derbyshire are missing out on benefits that are theirs by right. Sometimes the system doesn't make it easy for you to understand the rules about benefits or how to claim the benefits you are entitled to. Our welfare rights team can help you find out about the benefits you're entitled to and how to claim.


We can help with advice and can take on any representation that you may need, including:

  • dealing with welfare benefits and tax credits, sometimes referred to as social security
  • advice over the phone about which benefits to claim and how to claim them
  • sending out claim forms and advising on how to challenge decisions by the benefits authorities
  • helping you if you don't agree with a decision made about your benefit claim, including preparing appeals and representing you at tribunal hearings

If you disagree with a benefits decision time limits usually apply so you need to seek advice about challenging the decision right away.

To get help:

  • email: welfarebenefits@derbyshire.gov.uk
  • tel: 01629 531535 from 11am to 4pm on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday
  • print off the benefit check sheet attached to this page and send it to us
  • if you have a social worker you can ask them to make a referral

Low income

You may be able to claim benefits based on your National Insurance record if you're unemployed or too unwell to work (Jobseeker's Allowance or Employment and Support Allowance). These can be topped up with low-income benefits.

If you've previously claimed help because your income is too low, you may have a claim for Income Support, Income Based Jobseeker's Allowance, Income-Related Employment and Support Allowance. If you need help with an existing claim for one of these benefits, please contact us.

If you're making a new claim for low-income benefits, you'll need to claim Universal Credit.

If you (and your partner if you have one) are of pension age see our information for pensioners.

If you're a carer for a disabled person, you may be able to get disability and carers benefits.

Help with costs

You may also be able to get help with housing costs and Council Tax.

Social tariffs are cheaper broadband and phone packages for people claiming Universal Credit, Pension Credit and some other benefits. Some providers call them ‘essential’ or ‘basic’ broadband. MoneySavingExpert has more information on social tariffs.

Further help

Being on a low income can cause a lot of stress and worry. If you are struggling emotionally you can talk to the Samaritans at any time of the day or night, tel: 116 123.

Benefit changes and coronavirus

The benefits information on these web pages is up-to-date. It describes the way the system works under normal circumstances.

During the coronavirus outbreak there have been temporary changes to benefits rules. Some are still in place and some no longer apply.

The major changes can be seen on our news page.

For further information on the latest coronavirus related rules, please contact us.