Money to help with living costs
The Leaving Care Grant, and how we might be able to help you with a rental deposit and more.
The amount of support you are entitled to depends on your care leaver status. Check your rights on the GOV.UK support for care leavers website.
On this page
When you leave care you will be expected to pay your own rent and living costs from your wages if you are working.
Financial support for housing
If you are eligible, you will get the following financial support for housing when you leave our care. We will:
- Give you a Leaving Care Grant of £3,000. This is to furnish your new home with essential household items.
- Pay the deposit if you rent somewhere privately
- Pay your TV licence for the first year
- Pay for your contents insurance for the first year
Council Tax
All care leavers aged 18-25 who live alone do not have to pay council tax in Norfolk. However, you must still register for council tax at your local district council. Find your local district council.
If you live with someone else, or with other people, you might be able to claim Council Tax Reduction.
Visit GOV.UK to check Council Tax Reduction eligibility and claim
Housing Benefit
If you are unemployed or on a low income there are housing benefits to help support you.
If you are in supported housing or temporary accommodation you might need to claim Housing Benefit. Speak to your personal adviser or key worker who can support you.
Visit GOV.UK to check Housing Benefit eligibility and claim
In most other cases if you are not working or on a low income, you will need to claim Universal Credit for your housing costs.
Universal Credit
This can help with your living costs if you are on a low income or out of work. It includes the Local Housing Allowance.
Visit GOV.UK to check Universal Credit eligibility and how to claim
If you are a student
If you are a full-time student you can get financial support.
Read about help with living costs while you are studying.
Emergency financial support
The Crisis and Resilience Service (CRS) can help if you're struggling with money, worried about bills, or facing an unexpected financial crisis.
Read about the Crisis and Resilience Service.
Help with the cost of living
Support and advice if you are struggling with the cost of living, including food support and utility bills.
Read about help with the cost of living.
