Learn more about the support schemes available in Northern Ireland to help with the health, transport, and heating costs.
Help with health costs, including dental treatment, sight tests, glasses and contact lenses and travel to NHS appointments is available for eligible groups.
You might be entitled to help with health costs because of your age or medical condition, if you or your partner receive Working Tax or Child Tax Credit, Income Support, income-based JSA, income-related ESA or Pension Credit Guarantee Credit or if you receive Universal Credit or are on a low income.
If you are claiming help with health costs because you receive Universal Credit or are on a low income, you need to fill in the claim form HC1 ‘Claim for help with health and travel costs’, which you can access here:
For further information on help with health costs, visit:
Translink offers a half fare smart pass for people who are awarded the mobility component of DLA or PIP, have had a driving licence refused on medical grounds, are partially sighted or have a learning disability.
Application forms are available from Europa Bus Station, Belfast or by phoning:
Free travel on Translink services is available to anyone aged 60 or over. Visit the website below for more information:
There might be an oil stamp saving scheme or community oil club in your local area which can help you to meet the costs of heating your home.
Contact your local council to find out what is offered in your area:
The Housing Executive provides grants towards the cost of making your home more energy efficient. Grants are available through the Affordable Warmth and Boiler Replacement Scheme.
Eligibility for the schemes depends on your household income.
For more information, visit:
The Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme funds a number of schemes for domestic and business customers to improve the energy efficiency of buildings.
Funding is available for measures such as cavity wall insulation, reflective radiator panels, LED lightbulbs and smart heating controls.
A full list of all the schemes available in 2022/23, is available here:
