Overview
- September CPI of 3.8% is the baseline for next April’s uprating, with final decisions to be confirmed in the Autumn Budget.
- Reporting indicates the Labour government plans to raise the Universal Credit standard allowance by an additional 2.3% above inflation for four years starting April 2026.
- Child Benefit is expected to increase next April to £27.03 per week for the eldest or only child and £17.90 for each additional child.
- The Universal Credit disabled‑child elements are expected to rise to about £164.79 at the lower rate and £514.70 at the higher rate.
- Charities say increases will only partially ease hardship, noting more than 600,000 households on transitional protection will see no rise and many users report being unable to afford food.