AQW 30614/22-27


Ms Sian Mulholland
Alliance Party
North Antrim


Tabled Date: 08/09/2025
Answered On Date: 23/09/2025
Priority Written: No


Question:
To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any steps his Department is actively taking to promote awareness and uptake of the Universal Credit New Claim Grant.


Answer:
I am committed to ensuring that people are aware of the availability of the Universal Credit New Claim Grant which is unique to Northern Ireland and can provide important help to those awaiting their first Universal Credit payment.
To ensure the range of support available is clearly explained, an entirely redesigned Finance Support NI Direct campaign page has been developed using stakeholder feedback and enables users to obtain information on all aspects of Discretionary Support inclusive of the Universal Credit New Claims Grant. The NI Direct, Finance Support page can be accessed via the following website link www.nidirect.gov.uk/campaigns/finance-support
Enhancements have also been made to the Universal Credit journal which includes signposting and information on the Universal Credit New Claims Grant and how to apply as one of the initial messages a customer receives when they first claim Universal Credit. Specific signposting to the availability of the New Claims Grant is also included in the migration letter for those legacy benefit claimants currently being invited to claim Universal Credit as part of the ongoing Move to Universal Credit exercise.
My Department has also promoted the availability of the Universal Credit New Claims Grant Scheme through its close links with advice sector colleagues and has cascaded awareness of the scheme though its wide range of Neighbourhood Renewal partnerships.
In addition to the public information campaigns for claiming Universal Credit and the Move to Universal Credit, the Universal Credit New Claims Grant continues to feature within the Department’s digital advertising, with direct links to NI Direct for more information. I will continue to ensure my Department promotes the availability of the scheme to ensure people and families here are aware of the help and support available.