Rejected petition 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.
More details
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.
This petition was rejected
Why was this petition rejected?
It’s not clear what the petition is asking the UK Government or Parliament to do.
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.
We only reject petitions that don’t meet the petition standards.