Good day, it was a very very cold day today but my baby enjoys the cold so I took her out.

I’m glad I was able to say my piece in the universal credit meeting. I would have actually spoken but I didn’t get the chance as everyone had a lot to say. I had to type in the chat instead. I feel that maybe there needs to be another meeting about it as not everyone got to finish.

Hi,

I have just read the notes from the recent meeting and they are great. Doing away with the 2 child limit or benefit cap would really help families even though it would not impact me. I loved the fact that children should always be the centre of all of this because they are the future, I feel hopeful for the future. This team is amazing for what they are doing and fighting for. As of myself I have moved home and have had to find income to furnish a new build property, with plaster walls and concrete floors the dust has been worrying me for my child with developing lungs. I have felt a massive urgency to have these covered ASAP. This has placed me into debt which I will have to budget for from an already squeezed budget and at a time of year when we are preparing for Christmas. I might receive some support from my local women's centre, Footprints, but it all depends on donations so nothing is guaranteed but I am feeling hopeful. The thought of Christmas fills me with anxiety and when people talk about how many weeks away, I cannot even think about it because the pressure I feel takes over my mind and body immediately and makes me feel sick.

Excited seeing Christmas decorations being put up in the city centre

To be honest the zine workshop really improved my mood. It was really nice.

Today I’m feeling so drained and wondering what will happen next

Winter time comes with a lot of extra costs for clothing, food, electricity, Christmas shopping etc. It can really be overwhelming especially for widowed single moms like me who can't work full time.

However, I have chosen to be open to help from church members, charities, community groups etc. With all their help and my own input, I'm able to regain my 'Mom image' before my children.

No spare cash but I have paid all my bills and there is food in the fridge freezer and cupboards so I know I’m luckier than some

It's been very hard loosing weight; not a massive amount but its a loss

Feeling positive this week. I'm trying new ways of saving money.

A member of the team reached out to me on here and I'm so grateful. The link they sent me has proven invaluable! I can actually see a bit of light at the end of the tunnel.

Feeling a little good. I have managed to do a bit more work, so I have been able to buy my son what he needs for college.