Claiming benefits while awaiting DLR application

[Someones1]

Hi all
Im currently awaiting my response on my DLR application and was advised that i can apply for child tax credit and even housing benefit while im waiting
my current visa was a spouse visa although my "spouse" and I are now legally divorced and this is the reason for my DLR app
my child is british and was born and raised here their whole life.
Im currently working ( self employed) part time under the annual tax threshold and just need a bit of extra help
so can I apply for benefits now while my application is pending ?
and if so how is the best way about it ?
thanks

[Someones1]

can someone please reply