‘I go days without eating so my kids can’
A HULL mum who often goes without food to ensure her twins are properly fed has spoken out after the Government ruled out extending free school meals beyond term time.
Leanne Whitaker, is a single mum to premature twins Kacy and Keira, who have needed round the clock support for much of their lives, which has meant the mum of two has been unable to work since they born in 2017.
The 32-year-old has relied on Universal Credit since the breakdown of her marriage saw her become a single mum and she says people cannot possibly understand what it’s like to live on the breadline unless they’ve experienced it.
Ms Whitaker says parents like herself have found themselves in hardship through no fault of their own, which means they rely on government help.
“I’m on universal credit and struggle to cover my bills and afford food,” She said.
“I often go days without eating so my kids can. I’d love to be able to work, but I can’t afford childcare.
“Until they start full-time education there is nothing I
can do but struggle along.
“For a lot of us, it’s not the parents’ fault. I’m on benefits, but being on benefits does not make you a druggie or alcoholic.
“We sit in the cold and only heat one room in winter because I can’t afford it. I miss meals so my kids can eat.
“I don’t smoke, don’t go out to pub or for meals. I don’t even go on day trips. Not all parents can manage despite having benefits.
“The cost of living is too great compared to the amount received on UC.
“Everyone is different you can’t label us all the same. “Clearly they [people who judge] either don’t have kids or are well off enough to never have to worry about how to feed their kids.”
Ms Whitaker currently has no idea when she will be able to work because the trio have been shielding since March, due to Keira being classed as very high risk.