Useful Information & Links

Frequently Asked Questions: Life in the UK and New Arrivals

Short, sourced answers to the questions our community asks most. Newest first.

1. Family, Children & Schools18 October 2026

   Child Benefit: £27.05 and £17.90 a week, who gets it, the £60,000-£80,000 tax charge (HICBC) and the end of the UC two-child limit

   GOV.UK: Child Benefit pays £27.05 a week for the eldest or only child and £17.90 for each additional child, with no cap on the number. The charge starts above £60,000 (1% per £200) and takes it all back at £80,000. UC adds £303.94 per child; the two-child limit ended on 6 April 2026.

   Last checked: October 2026Full answer
2. Family, Children & Schools18 October 2026

   Childcare help in England: 30 free hours, Tax-Free Childcare (£2 per £8), 85% support in Universal Credit and free school meals for UC families

   Working parents in England can get 30 free hours a week for children aged 9 months-4 years, Tax-Free Childcare (£2 for every £8) or 85% support in UC; Tax-Free Childcare and UC childcare cannot be combined. Children of UC families get free school meals from 2026-27.

   Last checked: October 2026Full answer
3. Family, Children & Schools18 October 2026

   Maternity, paternity and sick pay: SMP, Maternity Allowance (39 weeks), paternity pay, Sick Pay (£123.25) and the Sure Start grant (£500)

   GOV.UK: Statutory Maternity Pay is 90% of average earnings for 6 weeks, then £194.32 (or 90%, whichever is lower) for 33 weeks. Maternity Allowance lasts 39 weeks; Sick Pay is up to £123.25 a week for 28 weeks. A £500 Sure Start grant may be possible for a first child.

   Last checked: October 2026Full answer