Going back to work or education
Whether or not you are happy to be a full time parent is up to you, though you may be better off financially by going into or returning to work or learning. Juggling the demands of being a parent, cooking and cleaning, spending time with your partner or family and finding time for yourself can be difficult enough, without adding another pressure of work/studying and childcare. However most parents find that having a balance of these things that suits them, makes them and their child happy.
Get advice about your options, and what financial help is available (for example tax credits are available for working parents, and may help with childcare costs as well) from places mentioned in the Learning & Working section, or from Castlegate.
The Children’s Information Service can tell you about childcare available in your area. See organisations that can help.
There is also a Connexions PA based at The Centre for Separated Families (see here) Trina Warriner. She supports young parents and parents to be (16-19 years) to get back into education, training or employment.
If you are under 20 you may be able to claim ‘Care to Learn’ funding to help with childcare costs while you go back or continue in education. Ask for advice or call the helpline. If you are over 20 there may still be financial help available for childcare costs, for example through your college’s Learner Support Fund.