Single parent back to work

[Superpar1313]

Hello,

I wonder if anyone can help I was on benefit as single parent and now im back to work. I don't get paid for another 2 weeks. I thought with my final payments of benefit I could cope for the month but now finding it very hard. Everything seems to be crashing electrictity/gas people fitted meters as thought they would hold of till new wage so resulted in running low. I don't know how I will cope for food electricity/gas, any suggestions? I struggle for food banks due to work as really want to keep this job for better future. any help appreciated

[QuiteQuietly]

I do not have much to suggest, but am hoping a bump will flush out useful people for you. It must be hard to be "doing the right thing" but suffering in the short term with it.

Try contacting the electric/gas people and explaining the situation? They may be able to increase the "overdraft" on the meter as this is a temporary situation.

Are your kids on free school meals? Any tesco/nectar points you can use to buy food? Boots sell milk if you have advantage card points.

Child benefit due? Family, friends or father of DC around who can help with food? Schedule some playdates in for DC before you get paid, then reciprocate later (after payday). Anything you can sell for quick cash?

[Jinty64]

Phone Citizens Advice and explain your situation. I would be surprised if there is not some sort of emergency payment you can get to keep you going until you get paid.

[MuttonCadet]

You could ask your employers for an advance on your wages - it's very common in the first month of work. You only need to talk to HR and they'd keep it confidential.

[MsAspreyDiamonds]

Check that you are claiming everything that you are entitled to i.e free school meals & tax credits. Apply to reclaim any PPI missold to you on any loans & or your mortgage.

www.moneysavingexpert.com/family/

www.hmrc.gov.uk/