26/08/2026
I am SO frustrated and stressed right now.
Craig and I claim Universal Credit because I’m unable to work, and like so many families, we still have bills to pay, food to buy and a home to run.
And honestly? I am incredibly grateful that there is a system there to provide financial support when you need it.
BUT…
There is a massive problem with how that system works when someone is paid every 4 weeks.
Craig has been paid twice during one Universal Credit assessment period.
And yes — technically, that is true.
But it does NOT mean we have suddenly had an extra payday.
He is still being paid every 4 weeks.
The money has simply landed twice within the dates Universal Credit uses to calculate our entitlement.
That means our Universal Credit has been affected as though we have had extra income — when in reality, we haven't.
And now we are left trying to work out how we are going to cover our bills and put food on the table.
This isn't about wanting more money.
It isn't about wanting something for nothing.
It's about the reality of having a system that looks at numbers on a spreadsheet without necessarily reflecting the reality of how a household actually budgets.
And I know we cannot possibly be the only family this happens to.
I've been told I can have an appointment with a final adviser.
And I'm sure that person will do everything they can within the system.
But realistically, an appointment doesn't put food in the cupboards today.
It doesn't pay the electricity bill.
It doesn't stop the direct debits coming out.
It doesn't change the fact that the money we were expecting to live on simply isn't there.
So instead of just sitting here panicking, I've been looking at what help is actually available — and I wanted to share it because someone reading this might need it too.
❤️ CITIZENS ADVICE
They can help you look at what support you're entitled to and may be able to help with food support, fuel vouchers and other local assistance.
❤️ COUNCIL TAX
If you're struggling with your monthly payments, you can ask your council to spread the annual bill over 12 months instead of 10, reducing the amount you pay each month.
❤️ THE PANTRY – HUNTINGDON
There is a scheme in Huntingdon town centre where you can fill a basket for around £5, which could make a huge difference when money is tight.
❤️ ENERGY SUPPLIERS
If you're struggling, speak to your gas and electricity supplier BEFORE you miss a payment. They may be able to look at your circumstances and agree reduced payments, more time to pay or other support. There are also grants and fuel vouchers that you may be able to access.
And this is why I'm sharing this.
Because struggling financially shouldn't be something we are ashamed of.
There are families working. Families with disabled members. Families on benefits. Families with children. Families dealing with illness. Families who have always managed their money carefully but have suddenly been hit by something completely outside their control.
And sometimes you don't need someone to tell you to budget better.
Sometimes you need someone to say:
"I know this is s**t. Here is where you might be able to get some help."
So if you know of any other local schemes, food support, community groups, grants, charities or genuinely useful ways of getting through a financially difficult month — please put them in the comments.
Let's make this post useful.
Let's share information rather than judgement.
Because if the system isn't designed around the reality of people's lives, then the least we can do is make sure our community is. ❤️
