Member of Parliament for North Ayrshire and Arran Katy Clark today gave support to the shopworkers’ union Usdaw’s national spotlight day to highlight the benefits due to working parents and to give renewed support to the pledge to end child poverty by 2020.
Ms. Clark said: “Labour have put in place many measures to support working parents. I want to make sure that local families have all the information they need to claim what they’re due, particularly in these tough economic times.
“We need to ensure we meet the pledge to end child poverty by 2020. The Labour Government’s action in helping parents back into work and giving them practical and financial support will help to lift children out of poverty but we need to redouble our efforts to make sure we meet the ambitious targets we have set ourselves.”
John Hannett, Usdaw’s General Secretary, is delighted with Katy Clark’s support:
“I know that because of the global recession many Usdaw members are worried about money, as are millions of low-paid families. Working parents are particularly concerned about their ability to pay the bills, take planned maternity or paternity leave, and the quality of their family life.
“That is why we are informing parents about all the benefits and support available to make sure that no family in need misses out on the help they’re entitled to.
We are also asking our members to write to their MP to ask them to re-affirm their support for the pledge to end child poverty by 2020. At a time of recession it is more important than ever to ensure that every child can reach their full potential, so I am particularly pleased that Katy Clark has given her commitment.”
Usdaw have produced information leaflets for working parents on:
• Child benefit
• Tax credits
• £500 Sure Start Maternity Grants
• £190 Health in Pregnancy Grant
• Child Trust Fund
• Help with NHS health costs
• Housing and council tax benefits
Download a copy from www.usdaw.org.uk or contact Katy Clark on 01505 684127.