Sure Start Maternity Grant Contact Number – How to Contact the DWP for Help?
Are you expecting a child and looking for financial help to cover the initial costs? The Sure Start Maternity Grant could offer vital support, but many find themselves unsure of where to start or who to contact.
If you’re trying to reach the right department at the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to ask about your claim or application, knowing the correct Sure Start Maternity Grant contact number is essential.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the helpline, how to reach it, what to expect, what to prepare, and what to do if you encounter issues.
Whether you’re making a claim, checking on an existing application, or need additional support, this article will provide all the details you need in one place.
What Is the Sure Start Maternity Grant Helpline?
The Sure Start Maternity Grant helpline is a dedicated telephone support line provided by the DWP to assist individuals with enquiries related to the maternity grant scheme. It serves as the central point of contact for all matters related to the application process, eligibility, documentation, and follow-ups.
This service is particularly useful if you’re experiencing difficulties understanding the claim process, haven’t received a response to your application, or need help accessing the necessary forms.
The helpline connects you directly with trained DWP advisors who are equipped to offer personalised support based on your situation.
Who the Helpline Is For?
The helpline is available for all prospective applicants and claimants in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. It’s designed for:
- First-time mothers and families applying for the £500 one-off payment
- Relatives or carers assisting someone with a claim
- Individuals who have not received their decision letter or need help completing their form
- Those needing clarification on benefit entitlements related to the grant
People living in Scotland are not eligible for the Sure Start Maternity Grant and should instead apply for the Pregnancy and Baby Payment.
What Is the Official Sure Start Maternity Grant Contact Number?
To speak directly with a DWP representative about the Sure Start Maternity Grant, call the official helpline number: 0800 169 0140
This number is free to call from both landlines and mobile phones within the UK. It’s the best route for getting up-to-date information on your application or for requesting support with your claim. When calling, you may first reach an automated system, which will direct you to the appropriate team or advisor.
Be prepared for potential wait times, particularly during peak hours like Monday mornings or just after lunchtime. While the call is free, patience is often needed during busy periods.
What Information Do You Need Before Calling the DWP?
Before picking up the phone, it’s helpful to gather relevant documents and information that the DWP advisor may ask for. This preparation can ensure your query is resolved more quickly and efficiently.
Important details to have ready include:
- Your National Insurance number
- The expected date of delivery or the baby’s date of birth
- Details of the benefits you currently receive
- A copy of your decision letter, if previously issued
- Your postal address and contact details
- Any reference numbers related to past correspondence with the DWP
Having these details available will help the DWP advisor verify your identity and retrieve your application details promptly.
What Can You Ask the Sure Start Maternity Grant Helpline?
The DWP helpline team is trained to handle a wide range of enquiries related to the maternity grant. While they cannot process your application over the phone, they can offer essential guidance, troubleshoot issues, and provide updates.
Common questions you can ask:
- Am I eligible for the Sure Start Maternity Grant?
- How can I get a new or replacement claim form?
- Has my claim been received or processed?
- Why was my claim rejected?
- Can I appeal a decision or request a review?
- What should I do if my circumstances have changed?
- How can I correct a mistake in my submitted form?
The advisors will not provide legal advice or information unrelated to the grant, but they can guide you to other departments if necessary.
What Are the Opening Hours of the Sure Start Maternity Grant Helpline?
Understanding the helpline’s operating hours can help you avoid unnecessary delays and long wait times. The DWP’s helpline for the Sure Start Maternity Grant is typically open on weekdays during standard working hours.
| Day | Opening Hours |
| Monday | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Thursday | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Friday | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Saturday & Sunday | Closed |
| Public Holidays | Closed |
For the shortest wait times, consider calling mid-week and early in the morning. Mondays and lunchtimes tend to be the busiest times.
What Accessibility Options Are Available When Calling the DWP?
The DWP provides several accessibility services to ensure that all individuals, including those with communication difficulties, can access support.
Support options include:
- Relay UK: A text relay service for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech impediment. You can use this by dialling 18001 followed by 0800 169 0140.
- British Sign Language (BSL) Video Relay Service: This service allows BSL users to connect to a DWP advisor via an online interpreter. It’s available on desktop or mobile devices.
- Textphone: Users with a textphone can contact the DWP using 0800 169 0286.
- Translation Services: If English is not your first language, you can request interpreter assistance in several other languages.
The DWP encourages those needing support to clearly state their preferred method of communication so that accommodations can be made.
Is There a Way to Contact the Sure Start Grant Team without Calling?
Yes, while the helpline is the most direct method, there are alternative ways to engage with the Sure Start Maternity Grant team, particularly for submitting applications or written enquiries.
The primary method to apply is by post. Applicants must complete the SF100 claim form, which can be downloaded and printed. Once filled, it should be sent to the DWP via Freepost.
| Contact Method | Details |
| Claim Form Name | SF100 (Sure Start) |
| Postal Address | Freepost DWP SSMG |
| Online Form Access | Available to download as a PDF |
| Digital Submission | Not currently available |
Although the DWP does not offer an online application form for the Sure Start Maternity Grant, their website contains detailed guidance and downloadable resources to support postal claims.
What If You Cannot Get Through to the Helpline?
There are instances when you may find it difficult to get through to the Sure Start Maternity Grant helpline due to high call volumes or technical issues. If this happens, don’t panic, there are alternative steps you can take.
First, try calling again at a less busy time, such as early morning or mid-afternoon on a weekday. If repeated attempts fail, consider sending your enquiry by post, especially if it involves an urgent claim issue or missed deadline.
Another option is to visit your local Jobcentre Plus, where staff may be able to provide assistance or guide you in the right direction. For those who require accessibility support, using textphone or video relay services may result in faster response times.
How Can You Report a Problem with the DWP Helpline?
If you’ve had a poor experience with the DWP helpline or encountered problems such as rudeness, misinformation, or accessibility issues, you have the right to file a complaint.
To report a problem, you should:
- Contact the DWP complaints team by phone or in writing
- Provide as many details as possible, including the time of the call and the advisor’s name (if known)
- Clearly describe the issue and how it affected your ability to access support
The DWP typically acknowledges complaints within 15 working days and may contact you for further information during the investigation. You can also escalate your complaint to the Independent Case Examiner (ICE) if you are unsatisfied with the DWP’s resolution.
Conclusion
Navigating the Sure Start Maternity Grant process can feel overwhelming when preparing for a new baby, but having the correct contact number can make things much easier.
Knowing how to use the DWP helpline helps when checking eligibility, chasing a delayed response, or getting support with an application. Calling during opening hours, having details ready, and using accessibility services if needed can save time and stress.
By understanding the support available and how to resolve issues, you can help ensure your £500 maternity grant claim progresses smoothly and without unnecessary delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Sure Start Maternity Grant helpline open on weekends?
No, the helpline operates Monday to Friday, from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It remains closed on weekends and bank holidays.
Can someone call the DWP on your behalf?
Yes, a trusted individual such as a partner, carer, or support worker can call the DWP for you, but they may need your permission or be required to confirm identity details.
What if you don’t have a National Insurance number when calling?
While a National Insurance number helps the DWP locate your records faster, you can still speak with an advisor. They may request other identifying information such as your full name, address, and date of birth.
Can you request a call back from the DWP?
The DWP does not routinely offer a callback service through the helpline. However, in exceptional cases, especially for accessibility needs, they may arrange one.
Is the Sure Start Maternity Grant helpline available in Welsh?
Yes, you can request support in Welsh by informing the advisor during your call or by using Welsh-language services offered by the DWP.
How do you speak to a real person on the DWP helpline?
After dialling, you may need to listen to automated prompts. To reach an advisor quickly, follow the system instructions carefully or wait until you are connected to a live operator.
What happens if the helpline disconnects during your call?
If your call drops or disconnects unexpectedly, you will need to call again. The DWP does not currently offer automated callback services for dropped calls.
