Tag Archives: family

Anger as lone parents face benefit cuts

May 20, 2012   Carers, charities, family, ukcuts

Short notice of welfare shake-up hits 124,000 now under increased pressure to find work

 

A young mother with her daughter outside her home on a council estate in Bristol.

Charities have spoken of their fury over changes to the welfare system which from tomorrow will force unemployed single parents with children about to start school to find a job or risk losing part or all of their benefits.

These 124,000 single parents with children aged five and six were given only eight weeks notice of the fact that they would have to move from income support to jobseeker’s allowance (JSA). Previously, lone parents of older children have been given up to 12 months notice, giving them a greater chance of planning ahead and improving their skills and qualifications.

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Mental health and armed forces charities call for more research into the impact of mental ill health on Armed Forces families

May 17, 2012   Armed Forces, Carers, mental health

Unsung Heroes examines the services already in place for families

Armed Forces families must be better supported to deal with the emotional and psychological impact of deployment, according to a report released today by Centre for Mental Health.

The report, Unsung Heroes, also calls for urgent research into alcohol misuse, domestic violence and the impact of mental health problems on the partners and children of Service personnel and veterans.

The report, which is supported by The Royal British Legion and the veteran’s mental health charity Combat Stress, argues that while progress is being made to address the psychological needs of Service personnel and veterans themselves, the practical and emotional impact on their partners and children must also be taken into consideration.

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Carers needing better support

May 16, 2012   Carers, carersweek, family, health

Carers needing better support

 

Published on Wednesday 16 May 2012 09:27

Bolton West MP Julie Hilling is calling for better support for the UK’s six million unpaid carers

Ms Hilling has teamed up with TV presenter and former carer Fiona Phillips to launch this year’s Carers Week (June 18 to 24).

The theme for Carers Week 2012 is ‘In sickness and in health’ recognising the strain families are under as they see services cut back. It calls for better financial and practical support for the diverse range of people who have caring responsibilities.

The Atherton-based MP said: “I am taking part in Carers Week to show my respect and appreciation for our carers. I want to let them know that there are services out there to help them. It’s important that carers know that they don’t have to struggle on alone.”

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