What will I be entitled to?

[helen_beee]

Hi, I'm hoping someone will be able to help me out as I'm really worried about my financial situation.

I'm currently a full time university student training to be a teacher (in the UK), my baby is due in the summer and I will be taking a year out before going back.

I work part time between 10 and 20 hours a week, however it is casual work and I am not contracted so will not get maternity pay from them.

My question is (as in the title) what will I be entitled to?

I will be a single mum and until I can return to uni to qualify I will be relying on benefits. I have never been on benefits before as I have always worked so I have no idea what will I be entitled to? Anyone out there with advice / information?

Thanks in advance

 

[louisechippy]

hey hun x you should be entiteld to income support, child tax credits , child benefit , housing and council tax benefit
you will also be entitled to the sure start maternity grant as long ass you have no other children under the age of 16 that live with you ( your own children )
and you will also get healthy start vouchers x HTH x

 

[KatieKitty]

Hiya sweetheart, Funny enough I was in the same situation. I was at University training to be a teacher. But I found out I was pregnant upon completion of my second year.

If you are working and earning over 30pounds per week, you will be entitled to maternity allowance since the company you work for will not pay you (SMP) I was also working causally. This entitlement is 128pw, so unfortunately if you do receive this you will get a lower housing benefit entitlement. I only get 25 pounds off my rent and and I pay my council tax which leaves me with around 51 pounds per week after paying my bills.

Once the baby is born you will get your child tax credits, And child benefit.
You are also entitled to a sure start grant.

I had never been on benefits before, so I was unsure where to start.
Please feel free to contact me I'm here to help. :]