The cost of living remains the defining challenge facing working families in Bolton South and Walkden. From energy bills to childcare costs, from rail fares to prescriptions, I know that families across our constituency are feeling the squeeze. That is why I am committed to ensuring that everyone in our community has access to the support the government is delivering.
Here is what you need to know about the help available to you.
Energy Bills: £150 Off Your Energy Costs
From April 2026, the energy price cap will fall by 7 per cent. This means an average saving of £150 on energy bills for households across Bolton South and Walkden. These savings will be applied automatically to your bill from 1 April, whether you are on a standard variable tariff or a fixed tariff.
For those eligible, there is also the Warm Home Discount Scheme, a one-off £150 discount off your electricity bill. Combined, this gives households the chance to save up to £300 on their energy costs.
These protections remain in place until July, providing real security for families as we head towards warmer months.
Pay Rises for Working People
From April 2026, 2.7 million workers will see a pay rise as the National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage both increase by 4 per cent.
Full-time workers on the National Living Wage will see an increase of £900 a year. Those on the 18-20 National Minimum Wage rate will see a £1,500 pay rise. These increases matter because they mean more money in workers’ pockets and less anxiety about making ends meet.
Prescriptions Staying Under £10
From 2026, prescription charges in England will remain under £10. Essential medicines will continue to be affordable for all those who need them.
Existing exemptions and prepayment certificates remain unchanged. No one in our community should ever be forced to choose between their medication and other essentials.
State Pension Increase
From April 2026, the New State Pension will increase by 4.8 per cent. The full New State Pension will now be £241.30 per week, or £12,547.60 per year.
This above-inflation increase is particularly important for our older residents who have worked hard throughout their lives and deserve security in retirement.
Support for Families: Removing the Two-Child Limit on Universal Credit
From April 2026, the two-child limit on Universal Credit will be removed. This means that families with more than two children will now receive Universal Credit support for all their children, regardless of family size.
This change will lift an estimated 450,000 children out of poverty across the country. Families in Bolton South and Walkden will see real improvements in their financial security and their ability to support their children.
30 Hours of Government-Funded Childcare
Eligible working parents in England can access up to 30 hours per week of government-funded childcare for 38 weeks of the year, for children aged 9 months up to school age.
This support can save families up to £7,500 per year, making childcare more affordable and making it easier to balance work and family responsibilities.
Free Breakfast Clubs in Primary Schools
Free breakfast clubs are now rolling out across every primary school in England. Since April 2025, we have delivered 5 million meals through our free breakfast clubs scheme.
These 30-minute breakfast clubs ensure our children start every day ready to learn, improving behaviour, attendance and attainment. They also support parents and carers by putting up to £450 a year back in families’ pockets.
How to Access This Support
Most of this support is automatic. Your energy bill savings will appear from 1 April. Your pay increases from the National Living Wage will be reflected in your salary from April. If you are a parent eligible for childcare support, you can find out more on the Best Start in Life website.
If you have any questions about what support is available to you, or if you are struggling to access it, please contact my office. I am here to help.