Taking a One-Year Break Between Third and Fourth Year – Student Finance Advice Needed

Hi everyone,
I'm currently on an integrated master’s program and I'm thinking about taking a one-year break after finishing my third year – essentially pausing before starting my fourth (and final) year. I’ve tried to get answers directly from Student Finance, but I keep being directed to an automated phone line or a live chat that never seems to be available. So I’m hoping someone here might be able to help or share their experience.
Here’s what I’m trying to figure out:
Should I not apply for Student Finance for the 2025/2026 academic year and instead apply for the following year (2026/2027), when I actually return?
If I skip applying for one year, does that cause any issues with my student loan account being closed or deactivated?
Or should I still apply for 2025/2026, and then the university would just pause the funding because I’m not attending?
If anyone’s taken a break like this or knows how it works with Student Finance England, I’d really appreciate some guidance.
Thanks in advance!