From April 2026, significant changes to Universal Credit (UC) are coming into force. While headlines focus on a small increase in the standard allowance, there is a much more serious change that could affect disabled people and SEND families.
Here’s what you need to understand.
What Is Changing?
1️⃣ The Standard Universal Credit Allowance Is Increasing
The basic Universal Credit payment is set to rise slightly above inflation. For many households, this means a modest increase over the year.
That sounds positive.
But that’s only half the story.
2️⃣ The Health Element (LCWRA) Is Being Reduced for New Claimants
The health-related element of Universal Credit — often referred to as LCWRA (Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity) — is being significantly reduced for new claimants from April 2026.
This is the additional amount paid to people who cannot work due to illness or disability.
For new claimants, this element is being cut by around £200 per month compared to current rates.
That is not a small adjustment.
That is a substantial loss of income for people already in vulnerable situations.
Who Is Protected?
- Existing claimants already receiving the higher health element are expected to keep it.
- Some people with severe or lifelong conditions may be protected.
But anyone applying after April 2026 could receive significantly less.
Why This Matters for SEND Families
For many families raising autistic children, children with disabilities, or complex needs:
- One parent may reduce work or stop working entirely.
- Health challenges (including mental health) can affect earning capacity.
- Caring responsibilities can limit employment options.
If a parent later needs to claim the health element of Universal Credit, the financial support available may now be lower than it is today.
That changes long-term planning.
What Should You Do Now?
This is not about panic. It’s about preparation.
✔️ Check what you currently receive
If you are already on Universal Credit, check:
- Are you receiving the health element?
- Is your condition properly recorded?
- Have changes in your health or caring responsibilities been reported?
✔️ Keep documentation up to date
Medical evidence, caring roles, and professional reports matter.
✔️ Seek advice before making big decisions
If you are unsure about how these changes may affect you, speak to a welfare rights adviser or benefits specialist before making changes to work or claims.
This Isn’t Just a “Benefits Rise”
It’s being presented as a rebalancing:
- Small increases to basic support.
- Significant reductions in health-related additions for new claims.
For some households, that may feel manageable.
For others, particularly disabled adults and SEND families, it could make a meaningful difference to monthly income.
Final Thoughts
We say this often — information is protection.
Changes like this don’t always affect everyone immediately. But they shape the landscape families are navigating.
If you’re a SEND parent, a carer, or someone managing health challenges, it’s worth understanding what’s coming — even if it doesn’t impact you today.
Because when systems shift, it’s families who feel it first.
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