Pregnant and struggling to afford it

[cloconutu]

I'm 19 and 23 weeks pregnant, me and my partner both work and have moved out. We're both apprentices so the pay isn't great. I've been able to afford most of the bigger items (cot, pram, car seat) as I knew I needed them but I'm really struggling to afford baby clothes. I've even been looking on vinted but I just do not have the money. I don't know what to do

You are unlikely to be entitled to any benefits until the baby is born but it will depend on what rent you pay. I would go onto one of the benefits calculators and see. If you are entitled to Universal credit once the baby is born then you may be able to apply for a sure start grant which is £500 towards the costs of a first child. Charity shops are also really good for barely worn baby clothes or bundles off ebay.

Buy second hand - no shame in it! Our town also has a 'free stuff / bartering' Facebook page where you can pick up almost anything you need for extremely cheap or free. Worth having a look to see if anything similar in your area.

if your in the north west, i have plenty i’d happily give(whites and baby girl stuff)

Toddler groups often have sales going on. Great place to buy second hand clothes, usually in very very good shape.

Do you have a baby bank or similar? You might need to join a few Facebook baby groups to see what is around. There is one near me which has everything you could need for a baby and it's all free, it's to avoid waste not just for those who can't afford it and you can donate back to it.

I have been given loads of baby things especially clothes as people are keen to offload them for space. It has mostly been friends of friends but Freebay would be a good idea.

If you say which area of the country you are in (roughly) then someone might be able to give you more localised advice.

If you’re in Scotland you’ll also get the free baby box.
www.parentclub.scot/baby-box

Ask on local.facebook group or ask at work. I've got loads in the loft but need an incentive to dig them out. If I saw a local youngster say this on Facebook I'd get them to come and see if there's anything they'd like.

Honestly babies don't live in tiny clothes for very long and you often get some as gifts too. Second hand is perfect as they won't be very worn.

Or ask on freecycle - put up a wanted post

Try the Olio app, there is a wanted section. I’ve just cleared out a load of baby clothes in excellent condition and many people will just be glad to see them go to a good home.

Freecycle is a good place to look for free stuff. If I'm getting rid of decent quality kit I usually post on there. Good luck!