I’m a single mum of five, working full-time while also self-employed on weekends. Despite my hard work, I still rely on benefits to make ends meet. Like everyone, I feel the cost-of-living crisis deeply, and it’s incredibly stressful knowing that my income isn’t enough to cover my debts.
Things have become even worse now that a large portion of my income has been temporarily withheld. If I had a choice, I wouldn’t be on benefits, but the reality is that relying on this system has become increasingly difficult. In the past 12 months, my payments have been withheld three times—first while checking my childcare arrangements, and now due to reviews of my employment and self-employment. This time, the delay is the longest yet, with Universal Credit stating I may have to wait until May 2025 for a resolution.
I simply can’t wait that long. I’ve already missed two payments, and services are threatening to send my accounts to debt collectors. I have no family in the UK to support me, and this situation has left me feeling completely overwhelmed—stressed, anxious, and depressed.
If anyone can offer any help, I would be deeply grateful.