Benefits
If you are pregnant or have a baby you may be entitled to getting some cash and health benefits. This introduction will list some of the benefits you may be entitled to.
To claim many of the benefits listed on this page, you will have to fill out a claim form. You can pick up claim forms at your local Job Centre Plus or at some post offices. Tax credit forms are available from the Inland Revenue. It is also possible to claim many of these benefits on-line.
It is always good to check whether you are entitled to these benefits by either looking up more information on websites, through your benefits office, or your Connexions Personal Adviser.
You may be entitled to numerous benefits depending on your situation so it is worth finding out.
Universal benefits: for all mothers
Child benefit
Free prescriptions
Free dental treatment
Health benefits: for people with a low income
Free milk
Cheap formula milk
Free vitamins
Help with hospital fares
Tax credits: for people in work or bringing up children
Child tax credit
Working tax credit
Childcare element
Means Tested benefits: for people with low incomes
Income-based Jobseekers Allowance
Income support
£500 Maternity grant
Community Care Grant
Social fund loans
Housing benefit
Help with mortgage
Council tax benefit
Education:
Apply to Care to Learn for up to £5125 worth of childcare fees (call free on 0845 600 2809). A universal service for all young people which will not affect any of your other benefits.
If you are 16 years old, pregnant and still living with your parents you are not entitled to anything in your own right. However your parents may qualify for benefits such as:
Milk tokens
Job seekers allowance
Sure start maternity grant
Housing benefits
Work or child tax credits - depending on their situation
