PETITIONRejectedPetition · petition.parliament.uk

Increase eligibility UC period for mothers until the child reaches school age.

Raising Universal Credit eligibility from a child's age of 3 to when they reach school age would greatly ease financial pressure on mothers, especially single ones.

Last fetched 18 May 2026 · petition.parliament.uk

Signatures

signatures

Government response threshold (10,000) · 11/10,000

Debate threshold (100,000) · 11/100,000

Petition progress2 events · May – Jul 2025

08 JUL 2025
Petition rejected
no-action
Petitions need to call on the Government or Parliament to take a specific action. We're not sure exactly what you'd like the Government or Parliament to do. Currently, mothers of children aged 3 to 12 years old are eligible for Universal Credit; they are expected to work up to 30 hours per week or spend up to 30 hours a week on work-related activities. You can read more about this here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/universal-credit-and-your-family-quick-guide/universal-credit-further-information-for-families#:~:text=If%20you%27re%20the%20main,child%20has%20exceptional%20care%20needs You may wish to create a new petition which clearly states what changes you would like to make to these guidelines.
29 MAY 2025
Petition created

Background

It would reduce the burden of costly childcare fees, which are often high during school holidays, and prevent mothers from being forced into full-time work just to afford care. With nurseries mainly operating during term time, many mothers face financial and emotional strain during half-terms and holidays, particularly without family support. Extending support until children start school would provide crucial stability, helping mothers stay afloat and better care for their children.