Benefits

“Benefits” are amounts of money given by the Government to help those people who do not have enough money to live on, like people who cannot find a job or are unable to work because they are sick. 

Benefits are also given to people who may need extra money for special reasons, like having children, or being disabled or looking after someone who is sick or disabled.  Money can also be given to help people study or train to get a job.

The system of benefits available to young people in England is always changing and can be really confusing.  When you leave care, there are a number of different benefits that you could get.  You need to get advice about what you may be entitled to, and it would be best to ask someone who is able to understand the system.  You could visit the Citizens Advice Bureau or ask your Social Worker.