Usually, no — Southend says people who need help with rent will get it either through Housing Benefit or through Universal Credit, not both. If you’re on Universal Credit, Housing Benefit is only still available in certain exceptions, like supported or temporary accommodation, or if you’re at State Pension age.
| Situation | Can Housing Benefit be claimed? |
|---|---|
| On Universal Credit and need help with rent | Normally no, help comes through Universal Credit |
| Single person of pension age | Yes |
| Couple both over pension age | Yes |
| Living in supported housing | Yes |
| Living in temporary accommodation housed by Southend-on-Sea City Council | Yes |
| Other circumstances | Help with rent goes through Universal Credit |
If you fall into one of the Housing Benefit categories, Southend says to use the Citizen Access Benefits portal to make a claim.