For Ukrainians living in Wales under the Homes for Ukraine, Ukraine Family Scheme, or Ukraine Extension Scheme, it’s important to understand the changes in the social benefits system that will take place in 2025.
Benefit Increases from April 2025
From April 2025, the main social benefits that Ukrainians in Wales may be eligible for will increase:
- Universal Credit:
- For a single person over 25: will increase from £393 to £400 per month
- For a couple where one or both are over 25: from £618 to £628 per month
- Work allowance (if you work and do not receive housing support): from £673 to £684
- Work allowance (if you work and receive housing support): from £404 to £411
- Child Benefit – an important payment for Ukrainian families with children:
- For the eldest child: from £111 to £113 per month
- For each subsequent child: from £73 to £75 per month
- Childcare cost support:
- Maximum compensation amount for one child: from £1,015 to £1,032
- Maximum amount for two or more children: from £1,739 to £1,769
Important Dates and Changes for Ukrainians in Wales
March 2025
- March 31, 2025 – deadline for receiving Winter Fuel Payment for 2024/25. Ukrainians of pension age may be eligible for this payment.
- March 31, 2025 – end of the Household Support Fund program. If you have been using this support, contact your local Welsh council regarding alternative assistance programs.
April 2025
- April 5, 2025 – closure of the Tax Credit service. If you receive tax credits, you will be automatically transferred to Universal Credit.
- General increase in social benefits by 1.7% comes into effect.
- Increase in the minimum wage by 6%:
- For people aged 21 and over: to £12.21 per hour
- For people aged 18-20: to £10.00 per hour
- For apprentices and those under 18: to £6.40 per hour
September 2025
- Extension of free childcare entitlement: Working Ukrainian parents with children under 5 will be entitled to 30 hours of free childcare per week. This is substantial help for families with young children.
November 2025
- Opening of the Cold Weather Payment scheme for 2025. This payment is provided during severe cold weather and may be available to Ukrainians receiving certain types of social assistance.
Special Considerations for Ukrainians in Wales
It’s important to understand that the social benefits system in Wales has some differences from England:
- Council Tax Discount: Unlike England, where rules for the 50% Council Tax discount for Ukrainians transitioning from HfU to UPE visas will change from March 25, 2025, Wales may have different rules. Contact your local council for clarification.
- Additional Support: Local Welsh councils may offer additional support programs specifically for Ukrainians. It’s worth inquiring about these at your local council.
- Housing Support: Wales may have housing support programs for Ukrainians that differ from those in England.
Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional legal or financial advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information provided, the authors of this article accept no liability for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on its content. For personalized advice, please consult a qualified professional.
