Welsh Government: Claim what you’re entitled to with free advice and support

An estimated £2 billion in benefits remains unclaimed across Wales, prompting a renewed drive to ensure households receive the financial support they’re entitled to, helping to ease the strain on incomes during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

Backed by a £36 million Welsh Government investment, free and confidential guidance is available through the Single Advice Fund income maximisation services.

The initiative is part of the Welsh Government’s Claim What’s Yours campaign, which helps people access financial entitlements such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Carer’s Allowance, and Pension Credit.

Since the launch of the Single Advice Fund in 2020, this service has helped secure £160 million in additional income for people across Wales and cleared £43.6 million in debts.

In 2024 alone, the Claim What’s Yours helpline—operated by Citizens Advice services—supported 36,800 individuals, resolving over 120,000 issues related to finance, housing, and employment.

Dylan Jordan, an adviser at Bridgend Citizens Advice, highlighted the importance of the service:

“Many people come to Citizens Advice wanting help but not knowing where to start. We check they’re getting the money they are entitled to and any urgent support they need right now. It might be a food parcel, a fuel voucher, or just a bit of help with the cost of school uniforms through the Welsh Government. We will try our best to help you move forward.”

The campaign has also introduced a £550,000 pilot project in collaboration with data analytics company Policy in Practice. This initiative, involving 11 local authorities, uses data to identify individuals who may be eligible for financial assistance but have not yet claimed it. Local councils, including Neath Port Talbot Council, have already seen significant results from similar efforts, particularly in the uptake of Pension Credit.

Jane Hutt, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, emphasised the significance of this work:

“Ensuring people claim what they are entitled to makes a positive difference to families across Wales. We’re committed to putting money back into people’s pockets. Whether you’re struggling with daily expenses, managing debt, or unsure about what help is available, there is support for you in claiming the financial help you’re entitled to.”

The Welsh Government is also working closely with local authorities to simplify access to financial support. This includes making it easier to apply for programmes like Free School Meals, the Schools Essentials Grant, and the Council Tax Reduction Scheme.

Councillor Anthony Hunt, WLGA spokesperson for Finance, praised the Welsh Government’s approach:

“Ensuring that families and individuals get the benefits they’re eligible for can make a real difference, especially during tough times, like the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. By making it simpler for people to access the support they need, we can not only improve the financial well-being of individuals but also strengthen communities across Wales.”

The Claim What’s Yours campaign urges anyone uncertain about their eligibility to seek help. Free and confidential advice is available through the Advicelink Cymru helpline at 0800 702 2020.

For further information, visit the Claim What’s Yours webpage and access the tools and resources designed to help maximise household incomes across Wales.