(Listen to Becky explain the problems she had claiming for childcare costs when she went back to work after maternity leave, on YouTube)
The fifth key finding from our research into the Universal Credit system is that well-trained work coaches and understanding staff can make all the difference.
Single parents Sarah and Nicky tell us about some of the challenges they have experiences with Jobcentre and Universal Credit staff
To ensure that single parents can get clear advice and support from the system:
The DWP should introduce specialist single-parent work coaches as part of the major overhaul of Jobcentre Plus.
(Listen to Becky explain the problems she had claiming for childcare costs when she went back to work after maternity leave, on YouTube)
(Listen to Rachel explain her fears around changes to benefits – and how her work coach has helped – on YouTube)
(Listen to Fiona, whose late husband’s pension has caused difficulties with Universal Credit)
Together, we can push the government to create a fairer Universal Credit system for single parents and their children.