If you receive PIP, DLA, or you’re on a low income, there are multiple discounts and schemes available right now that can reduce your monthly bills significantly.
The problem?
Most families don’t know these schemes exist — and companies don’t advertise them.
Below is a breakdown of six money-saving steps you can take today, along with official links where available.
1️⃣ Switch to a Social Tariff for Broadband (From £10 per month)
Almost every major broadband provider in the UK offers a social tariff for people on PIP, DLA, Universal Credit, ESA or low income.
These packages offer the same internet speeds for a fraction of the cost — sometimes as low as £10–£20 per month.
Check if your provider offers a social tariff:
📌 Ofcom official list:
https://www.ofcom.org.uk/phones-and-broadband/advice-for-consumers/costs-and-billing/social-tariffs
Speak directly to your provider and say:
“I’m receiving PIP/DLA and would like to be moved to your social tariff.”
You can do this today.
2️⃣ Council Tax Reductions for Disabled or Low-Income Households
The rules vary between councils, but most offer reductions for:
- Disability (PIP/DLA)
- Low income
- Mental impairment (linked to SEN)
- Severe disability premium
- Single occupancy
- Carers
These reductions can save you hundreds of pounds per year.
Check your council here:
https://www.gov.uk/find-local-council
Call or email your council and ask:
“What council tax reductions am I eligible for as someone on PIP/DLA and low income?”
3️⃣ Cinema Discounts + Free Carer Ticket (CEA Card)
Most UK cinemas accept the CEA Card, which allows:
- You pay for your ticket
- Your companion / carer goes FREE
This is valid in most major cinema chains including Cineworld, Odeon, Vue, Empire, and Showcase.
Great for Christmas, weekends, and giving SEND families safe support in public spaces.
Apply here (£7.50 for a 1-year card):
4️⃣ Concerts & Events: Free Companion Tickets (Ticketmaster Access Card)
People on PIP or DLA may be eligible for free companion tickets at concerts, theatres and events.
Through Ticketmaster’s Access Scheme, you pay full price for your ticket and your carer attends free of charge.
Apply for Ticketmaster Access:
Ask for the:
“Access Requirements Application Form.”
Once your access needs are verified, you can access companion tickets across most events.
5️⃣ Water Bill Support – WaterSure & Social Tariffs
Water bills can be a huge burden, especially for SEND families with additional washing, sensory needs, or medical requirements.
If you receive PIP or DLA, you may qualify for:
- WaterSure (water bill capped)
- Social tariff (reduced bill)
- Debt support programmes
Check your water company’s support options:
https://www.ccwater.org.uk/households/help-with-my-bills
Ask them:
“Can you check if I qualify for WaterSure or a social tariff based on PIP/DLA?”
If you have a water meter, WaterSure can cap your annual bill significantly.
6️⃣ Free Disabled Bus Pass (and sometimes trains)
Many local authorities offer:
- Free disabled bus passes
- Companion passes (carer travels free)
- Reduced fare train travel (varies by region)
This saves families a huge amount on hospital appointments, school travel, and everyday transport.
Check eligibility for disabled bus passes:
https://www.gov.uk/apply-for-disabled-bus-pass
You’ll need proof of PIP/DLA eligibility.
Some councils allow you to use the pass during peak hours and even on certain local trains.
Final Thoughts
These schemes exist because the cost of living for disabled families is significantly higher — from extra travel and equipment to energy use, food variations, and medical needs.
But unless you actively ask for these discounts, you usually won’t get them.
If you’re on PIP or DLA, you could save hundreds today simply by making a few phone calls.
We’ll continue adding more hidden discounts and support to help families manage rising costs.
If you’d like a downloadable checklist, I can create one next.
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