The Flexible Support Fund (FSF) is a discretionary payment administered by local Jobcentre Plus offices to help people on Universal Credit overcome practical and financial barriers to finding work. If the cost of an interview outfit, a training course, childcare or travel is standing between you and a job, the Flexible Support Fund may be able to help. This guide explains what the fund covers in 2026, who is eligible and how to apply through your work coach.
Financial Support
Learn about financial support available while looking for work, including Universal Credit, budgeting advice, grants, travel assistance and other schemes that may help eligible jobseekers during their search for employment.
If you are claiming Universal Credit and cannot afford suitable clothes for an interview, a required work uniform or essential equipment for a new job, your Jobcentre work coach may be able to help.
Support may be available for reasonable job-related expenses that would otherwise prevent you from attending an interview, accepting a job or starting work. Depending on your circumstances, this assistance may be provided through the Flexible Support Fund or another form of Jobcentre employment support.
The assistance is discretionary, so it is not guaranteed and there is no standard amount everyone receives. You should speak to your work coach before buying anything because the Jobcentre may need to approve the expense in advance.
If your Universal Credit payments have suddenly stopped or been reduced, you may have received a DWP sanction. This can feel stressful and confusing — especially if you're not sure why it's happened or what to do next.
If you're homeless, sofa surfing, living in temporary accommodation or sleeping rough, you can still get help from Jobcentre Plus. there are specific support options for jobseekers without a fixed address.
If you’re looking to move into work quickly, gain real-world experience, and access a guaranteed job interview—Sector-Based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs) could be the opportunity you need in 2025.
If you have a disability or long-term health condition that affects your ability to work, the Access to Work scheme from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) could help you stay in or move into employment
If you're actively looking for work, travel costs can quickly add up—especially when attending interviews, training, or job-related appointments. The good news? Jobcentre Plus may be able to cover these costs through the Flexible Support Fund (FSF) or other schemes in 2025.
If your benefit payments have been reduced or stopped due to a sanction, you may still be able to get financial help through a Hardship Payment.
If you're receiving certain benefits and struggling to cover essential one-off costs, you might be eligible for a Budgeting Loan from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
If you're struggling financially or trying to get back into work, Jobcentre Plus may be able to help—not just with benefits, but with grants, loans, and other financial support schemes in 2025.
