single, what happens after maternity leave?!! worried.

[sarahk]

I'm really worried about what happens when my maternity leave runs out. I wouldnt be able to afford childcare and i'd struggle paying rent. I dont think going back to work full time would work financially.

Anyone else been in this situation? What did they do?

 

[Mildly]

I'm not really sure but it might be worth looking into income support. I think if you claim income support you will automatically have the Child Support Agency managing the baby's father's contributions. I think you would then be eligible for housing benefit and other help. Please don't quote me on this though, it would be worth visiting either the Citizens Advice Bureau or your local jobcentre for further details.

If you did decide to go back to work you work be able to claim Working Tax Credit and means tested Child Tax Credit. I believe they also pay up to 70% of your childcare costs while you are working but again don't quote me on figures.

I haven't been in your situation though, sorry, so no real life advice to give.

 

[weenik]

You should contact CAB to see what your options are - you are also entitled to apply for flexible working hours which may help you? I'm doing that in the hope that I get to work the majority of my hours over the weekend so that family can watch D then and I'll only have to work one or two days during the week which means lower childcare costs x