I'm a single mum wanting to continue university?

[emmaxelsie]

So after years of doing Psychology GCSE and Alevel I have finally finished my first year at university. However after being told I couldn't get pregnant...I got pregnant. This has meant I have had to move back home with my mum who will help me with looking after the baby. (the dad has refused involvement) She works part time and we were planning for me to go back to university next year and for her to look after my baby when I attend lectures. Only thing is she would need an income, but would have to quit her job. Universal credit has told me they can not pay her as a childminder as she is a grandparent. I do not want a stranger to look after my baby. Is there anyway I can continue university and get an income to help us stay in the house? P.s.(I currently pay my mother at least £100 a month to help with bills, she earns around £540 a month)

Could she register to be a childminder and look after a couple of older ones as well as yours?

There is a money board on here too which might have some useful ideas.

Recommend contacting your university. They may have "hardship" funds available for example.
Would you have to return full-time or could you manage part-time say 2 days a week so your mum doesn't have to give up her job.
Would you actually need to attend all the lectures or would it be possible to do a distance learning option and watch lectures on-line?
Finally your babies father may not wish to have contact, but there are still obligations. If he paid maintenance that would help your finances (may not be possible for a while if he's also a student though).

In order to be a childminder, it takes courses and quite a bit of money to start. Also would not be an ideal job for my mum.
I have researched into extra finance for single mums and found two separate funds which can be added and may help. I need to transfer universities so is unlikely they will accept me for hardship fund, but will be able to inquire once I apply :) Thank you both for your replies x