Reminder

[maggiebee]

In the aftermath of the election and when the dust has settled, can we all keep reminding our elected representatives of the inequalities that exist in our society. Heartbreaking call today from a young mum who was sobbing her heart out because she couldn't afford nappies for her young baby. I could only point her to a foodbank in the hope that they could help. Keep having to remind myself that this is 2015!

[ummmm]

You're assuming young mums are entitled to benefits. Yes, they can get child benefit and that's approx £20 a week.

You don't automatically get tax credits.

[mrs.chappie]

I'm also assuming that if their income is below a certain level, they will be entitled to claim further benefits, as well as Child Benefit, which seems to come as standard, whatever your income.

[hc4361]

Various scenarios:

Large and unexpected bill to pay
Drunkard of a partner who takes all her money
Money hasn't come through for whatever reason
Incapable of budgeting
Zero hours contract and no work this week
Drink/drug problem
Lost her purse/had it stolen

[Mamyalynne]

Absolutely HC.

[whirlyhurly]

Mamyalynne, you suggest the Samaritans, well in my childhood experience of my late Mother phoning them when our cupboards were bare (a gambler husband), they just lent a sympathetic ear and nothing else.

[mrs.chappie]

Just as a matter of interest (sorry for steering off-topic, Maggie) - can someone tell me what makes one qualify for tax credits? Am I right in thinking it's nothing to do with tax you've paid?

[hc4361]

mrs.chappie, you must work a certain number of hours and earn below a certain amount.

[Mamyalynne]

I'm not sure that I have done any suggesting Whirly, simply stated that folk rang them in desperation as I myself once did (it was nothing financial).


Of course there are agencies to help but sometimes people need a helping hand to find them.

[ummmm]

There is child tax credits and working tax credits. You can get CTC if you're claiming JSA. For WTC you have to work a minimum of 16 hours a week and can claim both.

Obviously it depends on how much you earn.

[mrs.chappie]

Thanks to both.