Universal Credit can be complex and confusing so it’s best to make use of the information, help and advice that is out there. On this page, there are details of important contacts during your claim. This includes Universal Credit contact numbers, as well as number for independent advice agencies.
It’s important to make sure you are getting advice from trusted sources. Beware false information sometimes circulating on the internet and social media.
All of the contacts provided could be useful at some point in your Universal Credit journey, so please do get in touch with them for support.
They are all waiting to help you!
Independent support and advice agencies
If you are experiencing difficulties with your Universal Credit claim, or any other welfare benefit application, it’s really important that you get advice from the experts. There are a number of free, independent advice agencies across the UK who can provide advice and assistance, free of charge. You should never have to pay for these services!
Advice agencies involved in this guide…
This guide was created by Universal Credit claimants but also with amazing input from advisers working at Law Centre NI and Housing Rights. Below you can find out more about what these brilliant organisations do and how they might be able to help you (if you’re resident in Northern Ireland).
Many of us in UC:Us have had help from these organisations. One of our top tips for managing your UC claim is that if you’re stuck or confused about anything you get in touch with Law Centre NI or Housing Rights!
Law Centre NI
Law Centre NI provides advice on a wide range of welfare rights including social security to members of the public and other advisers. You can contact their advice line or search their website for information about Universal Credit.
(Closed captions and transcript available soon)
Housing Rights
Housing Rights works to tackle homelessness and housing problems in Northern Ireland. They can provide advice and assistance with the Housing Cost Element of Universal credit and rent arrears caused by delays, or difficulties with your claim. Watch this video to hear more from Faith.
(Closed captions and transcript available soon)
Important Universal Credit contacts
Discretionary Support
0800 587 2750 option 1
Help with Health Costs
(Eye care and dental care)
HC1 form – available online and processed via post
UC Advance
0800 122 1331
Claim online through UC account
UC Contingency Fund
0800 587 2750 option 2
Hardship payment
(eligibility criteria must be met)
0800 122 1331
UC Budgeting advance
(loan to get into employment and stay in employment)
0800 122 1331
Support with your mental health
We know from our own experiences that claiming UC can be a stressful time. Do reach out for help and support if you’re struggling with your mental health. There are some great organisations out there whose job it is to listen.
Here are some numbers and places for support:
Samaritans
(Northern Ireland, England, Wales and Scotland)
Freephone: 116 123 for more information, see: https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/
Mind
(Northern Ireland, England, Wales and Scotland)
For information on what help is available to you, see: https://www.mind.org.uk/need-urgent-help/using-this-tool
Lifeline
(Northern Ireland only)
Calls to Lifeline are free to people living in Northern Ireland who are calling from UK landlines and mobiles.
Freephone: 0808 808 8000
Rethink
(Northern Ireland, England, Wales and Scotland)
Freephone: 0808 801 0525 for more information, see: https://www.rethink.org/aboutus/what-we-do/advice-and-information-service/
Urgent local mental health helpline
To find an urgent mental health helpline in your area, follow this link: https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/mental-health/find-an-urgent-mental-health-helpline