I have been a sahm for 14 years (4 kids) I have done lots of volunteering during this time and finally got taken on as bank TA at my kids primary last spring. This winter have been covering for someone on long term sickness. Starting off at 6 hours a week and then raised to 12hrs/wk. They have now asked if I want more hours and it has gone up to 33.5hrs/wk. It is meant to start next week but I am having a bit of a panic. I don't know how I am going to cope with working virtually full time and facilitating all my kids activities (currently 15+ clubs a week!) And I am doing a part time degree. I'd be quite keen to give it a try and the extra money would be lovely BUT, it is only about £500 a month more than we currently get in tax credits which would obviously stop, so essentially I would be running myself ragged for that amount. I have a history of chronic fatigue illnesses (why I gave up uni 20 years ago, although I did work full time before I had kids). I am scared if I start and I cant manage that I wont qualify for tax credits again and I dont know how UC would effect us. Just dont know what to do. Was chatting to the business manager in school yesterday and I think all the talk of contracts has scared me. If it could be a more rolling flexible arrangement I might be happier.