Weather disruption
Winter weather is causing disruption to services in some parts of the county. Find out what services may be affected in your area.
Once you arrive, we will send you a voucher. You can cash it at a Post Office to help cover every day needs. We will send you the voucher by email or text message (SMS).
Most banks have information on their website about how you can open a bank account.
Some banks need you to bring some proof of who you are. This could be:
- your passport
- your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
- your driver’s licence
- an identity card
You should ask about any charges when you open an account.
Once you open an account you will usually be given a debit card.
You can pay bills straight from your account by ‘direct debit’.
Find out more about how to open a bank account on the Citizens Advice website.
The UK has a welfare system. It helps people that face financial hardship, or have specific needs. Your local Job Centre Plus can help you find out which benefits you can access.
Citizens Advice Dorset can help with benefit claims and benefit support. You can call them on: 0800 144 8848.
This includes:
- universal credit – a payment for those of working age, to help with living costs if they are on a low income
- pension credit - extra money to help with your living costs if you are over the age of 66 and on a low income. Applications for Pensions is online or on the telephone
- disability benefits – extra money to help with additional costs if you have a:
- long term physical condition
- mental health condition
- disability
- carer’s allowance – extra money if you care for someone at least 35 hours a week
- child benefit – extra money to help with the cost of raising a child
Universal credit
You can apply for universal credit if you are out of work. You will get a monthly payment to help with living costs.
You should call: 0800 328 5644. If you cannot hear or speak on the phone, you can call Relay UK on: 18001, then call: 0800 328 5644 or textphone: 0800 328 1344. This service is available Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm.
You can also apply online. You can arrange an interpreter to help you complete the online form by calling.
Once you have applied, a coach will help you with information about:
- English lessons
- disability support
- training courses
- work opportunities
Child benefit
If you have children, you may able to have Child Benefit. It is for:
- children under 16 years
- and older children aged 16 to 20 if they are in approved full-time education
Find out more on the GOV.UK website.
If there is a delay getting financial support local charities can help. They can help you get basic essential items and food.
See details of local foodbanks.
Some charities offer financial support through local voluntary organisations, like:
Ukrainian charities in the UK can also help, such as: