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Work Choices

Work Choices

Life is constantly presenting us with new choices. As single parents, we have the added pressure of trying to balance raising our children, supporting ourselves and getting enjoyment from life – no easy task.

Only you can decide how to manage your life, but in this section we have brought together information about the aspects of life that especially affect us as single parents.
Full Time Parent
Many single parents would like to get off benefits but doing paid work, and looking after children alone, may not always be the best thing to do. This may be due to your own beliefs about being a parent, your current personal circumstances or it may not be difficult to find childcare or get a good job in your area.
Paid Work
Everyone will have different opinions about what is best in their situation however these are some advantages and disadvantages associated with working and single parenthood.
Work Life Balance
Work life balance is, as its name suggests, about trying to get a balance between the amount of time spent at work and away from work.
Work and Stress
Many parents find it difficult to balance the demands of their jobs with the needs of their children. Looking after children is often stressful but trying to meet the demands of bringing up children and working as a single parent can test anyone.
Work and Benefits
If you work more than 16 hours a week, you may be eligible for help from the New Tax Credits. This is a benefit which is available for everyone on a low wage, not just single parents, however it is often very helpful for single parents on a low wage.
Work and Childcare
It is likely that if you start work you will need some form of childcare, what type depends very much on the age and the needs of your children.
Voluntary Work
Volunteering is a great way to get out of the house, meet new people, make friends, learn and develop skills, have fun, gain work experience, build confidence, feel valued and get a job reference.
Lifelong Learning
There is a wealth of learning opportunities available to adults, many are free or low cost to single parents on low incomes.