Support when you’re juggling family life
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Balancing family life and finances isn’t always easy. If money worries are adding pressure at home, it’s important to know what support is available. Getting the right help can ease financial worry and give you more space to focus on your loved ones.
Childcare and family support
With cost of living rising, childcare can feel especially expensive. There are government schemes and charitable support options that may help reduce those costs.
Some examples include:
- Free Childcare for Working Parents:[1] Depending on your circumstances and your child’s age, you may be entitled to funded childcare hours each week during term time.
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA): If you’re unable to work due to illness or disability, this benefit may provide financial support.
- Tax-Free Childcare[2]: A scheme for working parents that can be used with registered childminders, nurseries, play schemes and after-school clubs.
Eligibility rules apply, so it’s worth checking what you may qualify for.
Benefits and other financial support
Raising children often increases household costs. Making sure you’re receiving everything you’re entitled to can make a real difference.
You may be able to access support such as:
- Child Benefit: A regular payment to help with the cost of raising a child.
- Universal Credit[3]: If you receive Universal Credit, you may be able to claim back a percentage of your childcare costs, up to monthly limits.
If you’re unsure what applies to you, checking your eligibility could increase your household income.
Where can I find this support?
We know finding time to look into benefits and schemes can be difficult when you’re caring for children. These resources can help simplify the process:
- Benefits Calculator: Our free online tool can help you check what financial support you may be entitled to in just a few minutes.
- BudgetSmart: Our BudgetSmart resource can help you find savings, discounts and practical ways to stretch your household budget further.
- Turn2us: A national charity that helps people check benefit eligibility and, in some cases, supports with applications.
We’re here to help
If you’re feeling worried about your finances, you’re not alone. Our advisors are here to listen and talk through your options in a supportive, confidential way.
Taking the first step can feel difficult – but support is here when you’re ready.
Get debt help online or call us on 0800 316 1833 for a confidential conversation.
[1] Help paying for childcare: Find out what ‘approved childcare’ is – GOV.UK