DWP Announces Christmas Bonus Distribution for Benefit Claimants

As the holiday season approaches, the UK's Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is set to distribute a £10 Christmas Bonus to eligible benefit claimants, including those on Pension Credit, Carer’s Allowance, and Personal Independence Payment (PIP). This one-off payment, which will automatically be credited to recipients' accounts by early December, aims to provide financial relief during the festive period. However, many claimants have expressed dissatisfaction with the unchanged amount, which has remained at £10 since its introduction in 1972, arguing that it falls short of the rising cost of living. A petition seeking to increase the bonus to at least £100 has gained significant traction, with over 20,000 signatures, highlighting the need for adjustments in line with inflation. The DWP has confirmed that individuals must be receiving qualifying benefits during the first week of December to be eligible for the bonus, and that it will not affect other benefit payments. Recipients can identify the payment on their bank statements under 'DWP XB.'