Heather welcomes the fact that Bereavement Benefits (Remedial) Order 2023 came into effect, today, 9th February 2023. This will mean for the first-time bereaved cohabitees with children will be able to access Bereavement Support Payment, and its predecessor, Widowed Parents Allowance. This change will benefit thousands of families with dependent children.
Heather Wheeler MP says:
“This is an important update in the law. The fact is that fewer people are getting married but are cohabiting to have children and I am relieved that, in the terribly sad circumstances, where a parent dies the other parent will receive the same support as a married parent would. At a time of tragedy this benefit at least relieves some of the more mundane problems that occur when a partner dies.”
More details can be found at Bereavement benefits extended to unmarried cohabiting parents - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
