I dont know where to turn, Im so upset. Basily my Fiancee is working and has 5 children. She's been moved over to universal credit. She is far worse off than she has been under previous systems. She's been told what she'll now get on top of her 16hrs a week minium wage job. The trouble is the maths doesnt weigh up and it looks like she a cant aford to live, let alone provide properly for her 5 children. Im not much help as likewise I am a single parent and have to provide for my family. I am gobsmacked at what she'll have to raise her family on. As a single mum of 5 the benifit cap is kicking in too. She has no prospect of a job above mimiumum wage. Being a single mum means shes not really at liberty to work more hours. And even if she does she wouldnt be any better off on minimum wage with the current system, except her children would be worse off for not having her around and having to fend for them selves.
The only solution she can see is prostitution to bring in a bit of income to provide for her family. It broke my heart when she said the only answer she can see is using the only thing she has to make money (her body). And she is dead serious about it and the work is there in plenty of supply. I am so upset and angry, not at her but the system. I dont want her to turn to prostitution. I love her and I dont want her to be in dangerous situations or have to deal with the emotional conciquences. And I hate the thought of her being used by other men just so she can provide for her family. Its causing a lot of stress to us both and I shouted at her (I never shout). But its not her Im angry at, its a sitution that seems so injust. How can it be fair that any working parent cant receive enough to provide the basics for their familiy and has to turn to prostitution. I am so scared she will do it and I hate it.
Is there anything we can do? I've looked at the maths and im struggling to see how she can provide a decent life for her kids without some extra income. Likewise I dont see an other way to raise it.