Around 1,800 families across the borough are set to receive more support with everyday costs, following a major change to Universal Credit that has taken effect.
Last month, the government ended the 2‑child limit – a rule that restricted how much Universal Credit families could receive to help pay for food, bills, rent, and other essentials.
In the borough, the change affects an estimated 1,806 households. Across these families, around 6,620 children live in homes where support was limited.
This does not mean all 6,620 children were missing out on support. Instead, it means these families had their Universal Credit was calculated using only the first 2 children, even though the cost of feeding, clothing, and caring for all children still had to be met.
What has changed?
Universal Credit includes financial support to help cover the cost of raising children.
Until now, this support usually stopped once a family had 2 children. If a family had additional children, they were not included, even if:
- parents were working
- household costs increased
- the family situation changed
The limit was fixed and not linked to a family’s income.
From April, this rule has been removed. Families who receive Universal Credit can now receive support for every child in their household.
For most families, payments should increase automatically, as long as claim details are up to date.
Councillor Blerina Hashani, cabinet member for a fairer start, said: “Ending the 2‑child limit will make a real difference to families across the borough. This change means support will better reflect the real cost of raising a family. It will mean more help with everyday essentials, stronger support for working parents, and a fairer start in life for thousands of local children.”
More help for working parents
People who work and receive Universal Credit can get help with childcare fees, so that working or increasing hours is more affordable.
Since April, the maximum amount that can be claimed back each month has increased.
Parents can now claim up to:
- £1,071 a month for 1 child
- £1,836 a month for 2 children
- an extra £736 a month for each additional child
This support is paid as part of Universal Credit and is intended to be used to cover registered childcare costs.
Free school meals for more children
From September, all children who live in households that receive Universal Credit will be entitled to free school meals.
At present, some working families do not qualify because of an income limit. This limit will be removed, so every child in a Universal Credit household will be eligible.
In the borough, it is estimated that around 32,500 children live in households that receive Universal Credit.
Families who have not previously applied and think they may be eligible under the extended criteria will need to apply through Ealing Council to register their child for free school meals ahead of the new academic year. Applications are made online.
Registering is important, even if a child does not take a school meal every day, or is already receiving a free meal under universal primary school entitlement, as it can also help schools access additional funding.
