To ask for help with finances

[DesperateforRugby]

I am so desperate right now.

I've been off sick lately, and have absolutely no money.

I'm a rugby league fan, and it's the semi final tonight (it kicked off at 7.45) and because I've no money I've been unable to watch it.

It's just not fair. I work hard, I raise my kids and I can't even have this one thing for myself.

30TinklyLittleLaugh, you're lucky. I'm mid 50s and have never had sick pay. The working world has been harsh for a long time.

Are you aware that as soon as you apply for Universal credit and have had your ID check you can apply for an advance payment?

Go to the CAB and check about benefits. Ask them about a food bank referral if you are struggling to manage. If your children had additional needs check if there are any charities that can help with the costs of travelling to appointments etc.

OP my suggestion would be to join a community based union or a party that supports workers such as Greens, Lib Dems or Labour. You will find lots of advice and support there and meet up with not judgemental, supportive people. I am a local Party officer and mentor people in your situation to find opportunities and ways out of poverty.

Contact Citizens Advice as they can advise what you are entitled to and also help with filling in any claim forms.

Does your children's father pay any maintenance? He should be paying towards the children.

Is there a local church nearby? They may be able to help. They can also point you in the direction of a food bank.

Check the family fund and other charities. They can help with giving one off fund payments.

Sorry OP, I've just looked at Family Fund. I think it may be for parents with a disabled or seriously ill child.

However, check out the link below:

www.gingerbread.org.uk/information/managing-money-and-debt/turn2us-grants-search/

Family fund is for children not the parents. Eg a games console, an iPad , a Haven holiday, Merlin passes , garden toys, a child’s bed and bedding , a washing machine because child’s bedding needs washing often.

They rarely give cash and if they did it would be for fuel or days out with receipts needed. They give vouchers.

Are any of your children disabled op?

But Family Fund may be able to help you with a longer term plan to take your children on holiday (which you say you've been unable to do) as one of their grant options is a Haven voucher. Not a short term solution I'll agree, but something to consider in the future.

I can’t see anywhere that the ops children are disabled ,so no they wouldn’t help.

The OP says in her post of 21:01 that her DC have additional needs.

21:01 yesterday

Do any of your children get DLA? If they do you may be better off on UC as you get the carers element no matter what you earn (unlike carers where you can’t earn more than £123 per week).