Benefits and support

There are many services within the Council and other organisations that can provide you with help and advice regarding benefits, employment, energy costs, families, health and social care, housing, welfare rights and financial guidance.

If your claim for benefit has been refused or if you disagree with a decision about your benefit entitlement, you may be able to challenge this. Find out more about how to appeal.

Find out more about Personal Independence Payment (PIP), a payment to help you with everyday life if you've an illness, disability or mental health condition.

Find out more about Attendance Allowance (AA), a benefit for people over State Pension age who need help with personal care or supervision by day, or someone to watch over them by night, because of physical or mental disability.

Pension Credit is a benefit for people aged 66 and over that tops up weekly income for people who have reached State Pension age.

Eligibility criteria for the government benefit Universal Credit and how to apply.

The Department for Work and Pensions are moving some working-age benefit claimants to Universal Credit. Find out how the move could affect your benefits here.

The Crisis and Resilience Fund replaced the Household Support Fund on 1 April 2026. Find updates on how the scheme will support residents in financial crisis in Stockton-on-Tees.

We are committed to fighting the fundamental unfair differences that negatively impact people's life chances, quality of life and life expectancy.