A NEW study has revealed that despite their best efforts at budgeting, most one-parent families being helped by the Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVP) are unable to meet their basic living costs.
The study, entitled
‘It’s the hardest job in the world’, found that many one-parent families struggle to cover the basics of food, housing and energy costs. It also reveals that large unexpected or once-off costs which cannot be met from weekly income are especially problematic.
Speaking at the launch of the study, John-Mark McCafferty, SVP Head of Social Justice and Policy, said:
“The sadness and stresses caused by life events including bereavement, relationship breakdown and children’s illnesses are magnified by having to manage these situations on a low income and with limited resources.
“There is a tendency to focus on day-to-day survival rather than making plans for the medium to long-term.
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The study also found that loneliness and isolation impact negatively on the mental health and wellbeing of many lone parents and their children.
“Despite this, many demonstrated strong resilience and coping strategies in the face of significant adversity,
? said Mr McCafferty.
The importance of family relationships also came out strongly in the study, as did the importance of positive relationships with children and the rewarding experience of being a parent.
“All the participants were hopeful that their children would do well in school and be successful and happy in their lives,
? added Mr McCafferty.
Barriers for the many lone parents to take up employment, education or training were fear of losing supports such as the medical card or social welfare payment or being unable to afford the necessary childcare.
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The cost of education and lack of suitable employment opportunities or education and training courses locally were additional barriers.
“The positive impact on personal well-being and sense of purpose for those who were engaged in education, training or voluntary work cannot be overstated,
? stated Mr McCafferty.