Benefits and entitlements
In Lincolnshire,we have a point of contact at the DWP for care leavers to help ensure you are accessing the right benefits.
Council tax:
Under 18: you don’t have to pay council tax in Lincolnshire.
Over 18: once you turn 18, you must register and pay council tax if you have your own tenancy. Care leavers who are supported by the Lincolnshire leaving care service get a 100% council tax discount until the age of 25 in all seven districts of Lincolnshire.
Your leaving care worker will support you to contact your district council to ensure the discount is applied until you turn 25 years old.
New homes grant
The purpose of the new homes grant is to support you in moving into a home and buying the essential items you will need to thrive there. This includes things like:
- bedding
- kitchen equipment (for example pans, cutlery)
- removal costs
- white goods (for example a fridge or washing machine)
Any purchases you plan to make with the grant should be discussed with your leaving care worker and agreed upon by a team manager before you buy anything. This ensures that the money is spent wisely and on the items you really need.
The amount you are eligible for depends on when you turned 18:
- if you turned 18 on or after April 1, 2023, you are eligible for a £3,000 grant
- if you turned 18 before April 1, 2023, you are eligible for a £2,000 grant
Please note that only relevant or former relevant young people are eligible for a new homes grant.
Free prescriptions
You are entitled to free prescriptions up to the age of 25. Visit this site for more details and to apply directly or speak to your leaving care worker who will support you applying and getting access to the scheme