Financial cuts for parents

Released on 22/06/2010

NCT response to the Emergency Budget June 2010

Background

The Government has today announced an emergency budget. Measures include:-

• child benefit will be frozen for three years
• a cut in child tax credit for those on combined income of over £40,000
• health in pregnancy grant (£190) abolished
• Sure Start grant restricted to only the first-born child
• Lone parents to look for work when youngest child goes to school.

 Quote 

In light of today’s budget report, Chief Executive, NCT, Belinda Phipps said:

“NCT is very concerned that parents trying to raise a family will bear the brunt of the cuts announced today.

“At a time when families are trying to make ends meet, the Coalition Government has hit parents particularly hard. Cutting pregnancy and maternity grants, as well as child benefit and tax credits, will make it even more difficult for new parents or those wanting to start a family.

“We’re worried that parents, and parents-to-be, have been singled out unfairly, and that the Government should stick to its commitment to making the UK more family friendly.

“A rise in VAT will also hit parents twice, particularly those on lower incomes. At a time of expensive mortgages and household bills, parents with young children should receive all the support they can get. Supporting children well in the first few years is also crucial to their long-term development. 

“However, we welcome the announcement to raise income tax thresholds for those on lowest incomes. NCT believes by supporting mothers and fathers to become the best parent they can be, we are also supporting the best start in life for children.

“NCT is now calling on MPs to speak out against the cuts that hit benefits to pregnant women and their partners, and parents of young children.”

ENDS

 For further press information contact NCT Press Office on 020 8752 2404 or email press@nct.org.uk  For out of hours, please call 07722 839 428.  The NCT has ISDN line on 020 8992 6499 – please call Press Office first to book.  

Notes to Editors 

1. NCT is proud to be a member of the Campaign to End Child Poverty because life in poverty puts undue pressure on parents and family life. We believe that all parents should have equal opportunities to provide for their children. To support the campaignvisit; www.endchildpoverty.org.uk 

2. NCT is the UK’s largest parenting charity. Each year the charity supports hundreds of  thousands of parents through a life-changing experience, offering expert information and trusted practical and emotional support through the website, the nationwide network of 300 local branches, free helplines, antenatal and postnatal classes, breastfeeding counselling and peer support schemes. For more information call NCT on 0300 330 0770 or visit www.nct.org.uk