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 03 May 2026 · petition.parliament.uk
Signatures
11
signatures
Government response threshold (10,000) · 11/10,000
Debate threshold (100,000) · 11/100,000
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.