A change in the law means that thousands of grieving parents and carers will now be entitled to more support. Bereavement benefits have been extended to cohabiting parents meaning that those with dependent children who need support following the death of their partner can apply for benefits.
Campaigning groups have been calling for a change in the law for years. From Thursday, February 9, the government has extended the eligibility criteria for Bereavement Support Payment and Widowed Parent’s Allowance, helping thousands more grieving parents and carers to access this support.
The benefits are designed to help parents with the financial impact of losing a partner. Previously it was only available to eligible bereaved parents who were married or in a civil partnership.
