Updates from Citizens Advice North East Kent June 2026

re you claiming the benefits you’re entitled to?

To get started, you can use an online benefits calculator. For the most accurate answer, you’ll need information about your savings, income, pension, childcare payments and any existing benefits for you and your partner, if you have one. The Turn2us online tool can provide a quick idea of what benefits and other financial help you might be eligible for.

You may be able to claim Universal Credit if you’re over 18 and under State Pension age, and if you have less than £16,000 in savings or other investments.

If you’re finding it difficult to work because of a health condition, you might get more Universal Credit or not have to look for work. You’ll need to inform the Department for Work and Pensions that you have a health condition when you claim Universal Credit and, if possible, submit a fit note. You may also be entitled to the new-style Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).

You might be entitled to other benefits depending on your situation, for example if you’re disabled or if you have a child. Some people are able to claim more than one benefit - for example, disability benefits such as Personal Independence Payment (if you’re under pension age) or Attendance Allowance (if you’re over pension age) and Universal Credit. These disability benefits aren’t means-tested.

If you pay council tax, you might be able to get a reduction in your bill.

There is also help available if you don’t have enough money to live on. You might be able to get extra money from the government, your local council or a charity.

If you’re still not sure, or you’d like further information about any of the above, our advisers can help to check what benefits and financial support you might be entitled to, and help you find a way forward.

How can we help you?

Drop-in sessions (no appointment necessary):

Sittingbourne

Mondays 10am-12pm - Swale House

Tuesdays 11.30am-1.30pm - Murston Family Hub

Sheppey

Tuesdays 10am-12pm - Sheppey Gateway (except the second Tuesday of every month, which is held at Sheerness East Working Mens Club)

Faversham

Wednesdays & Fridays 10am-12pm - 43 Stone Street, Faversham

Thursdays 10am-12pm - West Faversham Community Centre

Telephone advice: Call Adviceline on freephone 0808 278 7979 (Monday-Friday 10am-3.30pm)

Email advice & specialist debt advice: Contact us online at canek.org.uk

Citizens Advice North East Kent operates across Canterbury district, Swale and Thanet. If you live or work in any of these areas we can support you. To stay up to date with our opening times, please visit canek.org.uk or follow us on Facebook.