Set Yourself Up for Success in 2026

A new year is often a time of change as we look to implement new routines or resolutions.  Change can feel daunting but it doesn’t have to be and often the secret to success is to implement smaller steps that are easier to adapt to.  So instead of feeling like you need to give life a total overhaul this new year, here are some suggestions of more manageable and practical steps that you can take to make the most of 2026 and to set yourself up for the year ahead.

Sort out your finances

Review benefits, reductions and grants

Start the year by making sure you are receiving everything you are entitled to. Check if you are eligible for:

• Benefits such as Personal Independence Payments (PIP), Attendance Allowance, Carer’s Allowance. Disability Assist can help you with PIP, the Limited Capability for Work form and Attendance Allowance, so get in touch with us if you need some help.

• Council tax reductions. Check your local council website for more information.

• Local Cost of Living support. This could be from the UK Government or from local councils.

  
  

If your home needs adaptations like ramps, grab rails or a level-access shower, ask your local council about a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) which can help with the costs if you meet eligibility criteria.

Review subscriptions and bills

Use January to carry out a “money MOT” to see what you can reduce or cut out altogether, where appropriate:

• Cancel unused subscriptions

• Compare tariffs for energy, phone and broadband

• Ask your water supplier about disability support schemes

Get your admin in order

Apply for or renew your Blue Badge

If you do not already have a Blue Badge and are eligible for one, you can apply as it can help to reduce travel stress and costs.  Kent County Council allows online applications and sends reminders before your badge expires.  Check out our self-help guide on applying for further information.

Buy a RADAR (NKS) key

A RADAR key, also known as a National Key Scheme key, gives you access to thousands of locked accessible toilets across the UK. Keeping one on your keyring makes days out easier and avoids the need for detours or discomfort.  You can buy them from many places online but unofficial RADAR keys may not always work when you need them to so it is best to buy from official sources such as Disability Rights UK or Blue Badge Company.

Join your energy supplier’s Priority Services Register

If you have a disability, you can join this free register to give you access to extra support in power cuts and accessible communication options.  While reviewing this, ask your supplier about:

• Warm Home Discount eligibility

• Energy debt support

• Free or low-cost home energy assessments

Even a small saving can help reduce strain on your budget.

Cut everyday costs

Energy-saving steps

Simple changes such as lowering thermostat timings, improving draught-proofing or requesting a free smart meter can lower bills.  Social Enterprise Kent (SEK) is offering free energy advice and home visits to anyone who may be finding it more difficult to stay warm and well as the temperatures drop.  They also have access to fuel vouchers, if anyone is in need of urgent fuel support and has a pre-payment meter.  Find our more about their energy advice programme here.

Explore social tariffs

Many broadband and phone providers offer discounted social tariffs for customers on qualifying benefits.  These can reduce bills by up to £20 a month so it is worth investigating.  You can find more information on the Ofcom website.

Consider a Prescription Pre-payment Certificate (PPC)

If you pay for prescriptions regularly, obtaining a PPC can save you some money each year by allowing unlimited prescriptions for a fixed price.  They can be bought for a 3 month or 12 month period.  You will save money if you need more than 3 items in 3 months, or 11 items in 12 months, compared to paying for each item so it is definitely worth looking into if you get several prescriptions. You can learn more and buy online on the NHS website.

We have more suggestions of steps you can take to set yourself up for success in other areas of your life and will be sharing those next month, so sign up to our monthly newsletter to make sure you don't miss out. You can do so by entering your email address in the box at the bottom of this page.