Theresa Kamuayi, a single mother from Tooting, is navigating the challenges of raising her 21-month-old daughter, Emily, with limited resources. Kamuayi, now struggling with mental health issues, is out of work right now. She is mother of three, Emily being her youngest. Emily’s father’s absence only compounds her struggles. A local nonprofit group intervened, and their support proved to be crucial, changing the course of their lives in impressive ways.
Little Village is a baby bank that serves Tooting, Camden and Wembley. It benefits families such as Kamuayi’s by giving them a much-needed start, including delivering clothing and other items. Yet, a recent survey conducted by Little Village yielded some pretty scary findings. It revealed that 81% of parents on help were unable to afford things like warm coats, boots and jumpers for their kids. This points to the urgent demand for relief among families struggling to make ends meet.
To survive, Kamuayi needs an access to Little village for all essential resources. Having this support system allows her and her children to continue to blossom. The charity was there for me, to help,” she said, adding that Times Up has provided her with supportive services.
The hit to family finances is made worse by the two-child benefit cap. This cap prevents the majority of families from accessing means-tested benefits for all third or subsequent children born after April 2017. This policy has left many parents struggling to provide for their children, as they are unable to receive additional support despite their growing needs.
Sophie Livingstone, chief executive of Little Village put a human face on the issue, making clear the urgent need to get to work. She campaigns for the removal of the two-child benefit cap, insisting there is a “clear and pressing need” for a change in government policy. Livingstone raised her concerns about the bigger picture, including the long-term impact of this government’s support for working families.
“My concern is that the government will think that their job is done.” – Sophie Livingstone
Livingstone further underscored the need to focus more resources to truly support working families. “The priorities to support families would be looking at the rate of benefits, looking at solving housing issues… the cost of childcare as well, and making work pay,” she remarked. Her comments underscore the systematic, holistic approach that is required to address the systemic causes of family hardship.
As ministers hint at potential changes to the two-child benefit cap in November’s Budget, advocates like Livingstone remain hopeful yet cautious about the government’s commitment to addressing these pressing issues.
“Every child, no matter their background, deserves the best start in life.” – Government spokesperson
