Divorce and child poverty

7 May 2013

The recently published Welfar Reform Bill will see many existing state benefits will be abolished to be replaced by a single “universal credit”.  The Government believes this will simplify the current complex benefits system and more people will be better off in work than they would be claiming benefits. The Government is looking to redefine how it measures child poverty.  The Government believes that factors other than income levels, such as drug abuse by the parents, should be taken into account in defining child poverty.  

Joanna Moore, solicitor and Partner in the Family Team at Gepp & Sons believes that the Government must not overlook the impact of divorce or separation on household incomes and child poverty.  Joanna is often consulted by clients intending to start divorce proceedings who have been homemakers whilst supporting their spouse’s career or have worked on a part-time basis.  This can have a considerable impact on household incomes when a couple are separating.  Joanna often advises her clients to take advantage of the current Working Tax and Child Tax credit system which in many cases will considerably improve a part-time single working parent’s income when a couple’s finances are stretched to support two households on divorce or separation.  It remains to be seen how the new universal credit will affect a single parent with the care of children as and when it comes into force around October 2013. 

If you are considering starting a divorce or you are unmarried and embarking on a separation and you would like to be advised as to your financial entitlements, you are invited to contact Gepp & Sons family law team for an initial free consultation by telephoning 01245 228126 or emailing moorej@gepp.co.uk.

You can also now catch us on twitter: @geppsfamilyteam