Your benefits
The benefits system has undergone a major change recently. We can help you to understand what benefits you are entitled to, including Universal Credit, benefits when you are having a baby, disability benefits, and more.
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Universal Credit
This information is for single parents about to claim Universal Credit, already getting it or who want to know more about it. It explains what Universal Credit is, how to claim, how it is calculated and how it is paid.
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Benefits have changed
The benefits system has undergone a major change recently. Some benefits are being replaced while others might have different rules for claiming them.
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Disability, sickness and care benefits
If you, or your child, have a disability or illness or you care for someone with a disability or illness you may be able to get benefits to help with day to day living costs and to pay for support and services.
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Benefits Calculator
Our free Benefits Calculator can help you find out which benefits and financial support you might be entitled to as a single parent.
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Benefits from the Scottish Government
The Scottish Government has introduced new Scottish Social Security benefits and replaced, or amended, other UK benefits.
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Child Benefit
You can get Child Benefit if you are responsible for a child or qualifying young person.
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Benefits based on your National Insurance contributions
If you have made the necessary National Insurance contributions you may get new style Jobseeker’s Allowance or new style Employment and Support Allowance if you stop working.
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Bereavement Support Payment
If your husband, wife or civil partner has died in the last 21 months you may be able to get Bereavement Support Payment.
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Mandatory reconsideration and appeals
If you disagree with a decision about benefits, tax credits or child maintenance you can request a mandatory reconsideration or appeal. This is when you ask for the decision to be looked at again.
News updates for single parents
View all newsOur news updates reflect the work of One Parent Families Scotland and the issues affecting single parents today.
Single Parent FAQs: Help with school holiday costs – Issue 50
07/04/2026
Single Parent FAQs: What childcare support is available for parents in Scotland? – Issue 49
10/03/2026
Single Parent FAQs: How do I register to vote in the upcoming Holyrood elections? – Issue 48
11/02/2026