Universal Credit Migration

Universal Credit - if you receive a Migration Notice letter from the DWP.

Universal Credit is rolling out to further customers throughout 2024/25. The DWP will write to you to let you know when this is happening.

If you receive a Migration Notice letter from the DWP

To continue receiving financial support you must claim Universal Credit by the deadline date given in your letter. This is 3 months from the date the letter was sent.

If you cannot claim Universal Credit by the deadline date, you should contact the Universal Credit Migration Notice helpline as soon as possible. 

They can only give you more time to make a claim if you have a good reason. You must request this before the deadline date on your letter.

Visit here for more information.

Transitional protection’ payments

These are an additional amount to help with your move to Universal Credit. The payment will make up the difference if your Universal Credit entitlement is less than your previous tax credits or benefits.

You can only get this additional amount if you have received a Migration Notice and claim by the deadline date on your letter.

Worried about the Cost of Living?

Here to Support You

We understand that the cost of living crisis is making things difficult for many people. If you’re struggling with your finances or rent payments, we want you to know that you’re not alone — we’re here to help.

Managing rent alongside other expenses can be challenging, but if you’re worried about making payments, please reach out to us as soon as possible.

How We Can Help

Our Rent Support Team offers confidential, personalised advice because we know that everyone's circumstances are different. We understand that asking for help isn’t always easy, but having a conversation can provide clarity and a way forward. We’re here to support you, not judge.

Our Commitment to You

✔️ Confidential & non-judgmental advice
✔️ Practical support to help manage rent payments
✔️ A dedicated team that listens and understands

If you're facing difficulties, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help. Call us on 0300 303 9848 or email rentfirst@wvht.co.uk

Rent Support in 2025

Below is our latest rent support leaflet which was sent with your rent increase letter. 

For further information and help, please contact our team by calling 0300 303 9848 or email rentfirst@wvht.co.uk

Rent free weeks

If you pay your rent weekly*, your next rent free weeks are  W/C 22nd December and the W/C 29th December.

If you pay monthly, the rent free weeks are taken into the rent calculation, so your payment needs to stay the same.

Please note, if you are in arrears you will have to pay rent on these weeks.

*Not all tenancies have rent free weeks, please check your tenancy agreement for more information.

The previous rent free weeks were: 

w/c 24th March and the w/c 31st March.

w/c 23rd December and the 30th December.

Managing your household budget

Why priority bills and budgeting matter

Managing your money effectively starts with understanding your priority bills — these are the essential payments that keep your home secure, such as rent, council tax, gas, electricity, and water. Missing these can lead to getting into debt. Take control of your money with a simple budget

Budgeting isn’t about restrictions, it’s about confidence. A budget helps you:

  • Stay in control  of your money
  • Plan ahead  for bills and goals
  • Reduce stress  by knowing where your money goes

You can find a simple budgeting sheet here to help you manage your household budgets. 

Need support?

If you’re struggling to meet your priority bills or need help with your rent or debts, we’re here to support you and find solutions that work for you. Call the Rent Support team on 0300 303 9848 or email us at rentfirst@wvht.co.uk to find out how we can help.