Every year, billions of pounds in state and local authority benefits and services go unclaimed in the UK. According to Policy in Practice, around £23 billion of this support is missed each year—often because the system is complex, time is short, or there is a lack of clarity on who could be eligible to make a claim. At the Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF, the Freemasons’ charity), we meet people doing their best in tough times who simply haven’t been told what help exists from the state and/or their local authority—or assume they won’t qualify. If that might be you or someone you care about, this guide may be helpful.

Why people miss out (and why it’s not your fault)

• Life changes fast. A new baby, health changes, bereavement or reduced hours can all change what you’re entitled to.
• It’s complicated. Different forms, rules and acronyms.
• Myths linger. Working, owning a home or having some savings doesn’t automatically rule you out.

You don’t need to know every rule—just take the first step. We’ll walk with you from there.

What to check (quick tour of common support)

You won’t need all of these, but a quick review of what you may be eligible for can make a big difference:

Income & bills

• Universal Credit – helps with living costs and rent (even if you’re working or self-employed).
• Council Tax Reduction – a local discount that’s easy to miss.
• Social tariffs – lower-cost broadband and mobile if you receive certain benefits.

Older age & pensions

• Pension Credit – tops up income over State Pension age and can unlock extra help.

Health, disability & caring

• Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – extra costs for a health condition or disability.
• Attendance Allowance – for people over State Pension age who need day-to-day support.
• Carer’s Allowance – if you care for someone 35+ hours a week.

Families & childcare

• Child Benefit – still relevant for many; worth checking.
• Childcare help – free hours and support via Universal Credit or Tax-Free Childcare.

“Lost” money to trace

• Premium Bond prizes, dormant accounts, and old pensions – simple, free checks can reunite you with money.

The easiest start: a 10–15 minute benefits check

Use a free, confidential benefits calculator (e.g., Turn2us). Have to hand: your National Insurance number, recent income details, rent/mortgage and Council Tax amounts, and rough savings/pension figures. No perfect paperwork? Do the check anyway—you can refine later.

How the MCF can help

If you’re a Freemason, or the partner, widow(er), child or dependent of a Freemason in England or Wales, our Advice & Support Team (AST) offers kind, confidential help alongside statutory support:

• Benefits guidance in plain English – what you could claim and how.
• Form-filling support – gather evidence and navigate applications with confidence.
• Financial assistance (eligibility applies) – we can consider grants to ease pressure and complement state support.
• A joined-up approach – we look at income, health, caring and housing so you don’t repeat your story.

Even if you’re not eligible for a grant, we’ll still signpost you to the right help. The AST are motivated in helping you get the support you deserve.

Getting help is simple (3 quick steps)

1. Get in touch – call 0800 035 6090 or email help@mcf.org.uk (you can also speak to your Lodge Almoner).
2. Quick financial check – by phone or visit, to understand your situation.
3. Support set-up – we’ll help you claim what you may be eligible for and, where appropriate, consider a grant.

Friendly FAQs

Will applying for benefits affect other help?
Benefits exist to support you. We’ll explain how everything fits together so you can make informed choices.

I’m working—am I still eligible?
Possibly. Many state and local benefits support people in work, especially where rent, children, disability or caring are involved.

What if I’ve been turned down before?
Situations change. It’s always worth checking again.

Don’t miss out. A single conversation can boost your income and peace of mind: 0800 035 6090 · help@mcf.org.uk.