HMRC, DWP, ILR, P45, V5C — British paperwork is full of abbreviations you cannot guess. These are the ones that actually appear in our reporting: what they are, why they matter and where to read the official rule.
The plastic card that proved immigration status; being replaced by the digital eVisa.
Verification through GOV.UK One Login is free and takes minutes: you need a biometric passport from any country, a UK photo driving licence, or a BRP, BRC or Frontier Worker permit. First convictions for missing Companies House ID checks: what it costs now, and how long is left
Official source · appears in 33 of our articles
The recognised sign language of the UK's deaf community, with its own grammar.
Access to Work: a grant for equipment, support workers and travel, with no means test The scheme pays for equipment, a BSL interpreter, a job coach, travel and vehicle adaptations. Access to Work: a grant for equipment, support workers and travel, with no means test
Official source · appears in 9 of our articles
The competition and consumer-protection regulator; fines firms for collusion and misleading selling.
As the UK regulator the CMA warns, a "free" offer can quietly sign you up to repeated payments. Free samples in the UK: where to get them and the catch
Official source · appears in 24 of our articles
The UK's main measure of inflation; pensions, benefits and many charges are linked to it.
Annual CPI inflation was 3.5% in September. Bank of England raises Bank Rate to 4%: what borrowers and businesses should check
Official source · appears in 23 of our articles
Inspects hospitals, clinics, dentists and care homes in England; its register shows whether a provider is lawful.
ADHD and autism diagnostic assessments — including private and self-funded ones — are to be CQC-regulated, and national NHS prices are intended from April 2027. ADHD and autism in England: government changes the rules on assessments and promises help without a diagnosis
Official source · appears in 8 of our articles
Issues criminal record checks, required for work with children or vulnerable adults.
Basic DBS check UK 2026: how to get one and what it costs A basic DBS check shows unspent convictions and costs £20. Basic DBS check UK 2026: how to get one and what it costs
Official source · appears in 6 of our articles
Responsible for schools, childcare, further education and children's social care in England.
DfE polling found two thirds of people (66%) believe they could be a good foster carer if practical barriers were removed. England wants 10,000 new foster places: who can apply and what carers are paid
Official source · appears in 9 of our articles
A payment for children under 16 who need extra care or help getting around.
DLA for children: rates from £30.30 to £194.60 and the three-month rule The award is built from two components: care at £30.30, £76.70 or £114.60 a week, mobility at £30.30 or £80. DLA for children: rates from £30.30 to £194.60 and the three-month rule
Official source · appears in 24 of our articles
The driverless railway linking the City, Docklands, Greenwich and London City Airport.
And on the Tube, DLR, London Overground and Elizabeth line, up to four children under 11 travel free with one fare-paying adult — no photocard needed in that case. Free travel for children in London: who rides for free
Official source · appears in 44 of our articles
Issues driving licences, registers vehicles and administers vehicle tax.
A provisional licence — the first document that lets you learn to drive — is issued by the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency). First UK provisional driving licence: age, cost and timing
Official source · appears in 70 of our articles
Responsible for benefits and the State Pension: Universal Credit, PIP, ESA and JSA.
Leaving benefits does not clear the debt: DWP Debt Management writes to explain how to repay, in full or by monthly payments. UK interest-free government loans: £100 to £812
Official source · appears in 80 of our articles
The EU plus Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway; the term appears throughout immigration and banking rules.
The EU Settlement Scheme — the programme through which EU, other EEA and Swiss citizens and their family members secure their right to live in the UK after Brexit — closed for most people on 30 June 2021. EU Settlement Scheme: can you still apply after the deadline?
Official source · appears in 15 of our articles
Missing an abbreviation? Write to info@onlyway.news and we will add it. Abbreviations that appear in our texts but are not yet explained are queued automatically.
A person from the newsroom reads this and answers, usually the same day.
