Recession Tips

This seems to be the hot topic on the blogosphere at the moment.

We've already been out there to trying to reach parents who are having a tough time through our regional offices, with letters and press coverage in the local media like this:

"Giving families recession help [Newcastle Evening Chronicle]

PARENTLINE Plus feels strongly that family life can be tough enough without the added financial pressures and strains that a drop in household income or unemployment can put on them.

Stress and conflict may increase in some families as a direct result of the squeeze on household budgets. Children may also get anxious about the gloomy economic news and worry about the future for their family. Stress-related family breakdown is expected to increase.

We urge mums and dads not to be put off asking for help because they fear they will be labelled as ‘bad parents’.

In a stressful situation, asking for help is a sign of parenting strength, and parents should be encouraged to access the support available, such as the free and confidential Parentline service we offer 24 hours a day on 0808 800 2222.

Or you can contact our local individual parenting support service in Gloucester which can be accessed by calling (01453) 768 160 and speaking to Jane Windle, our local services co-ordinator, to arrange an appointment.

We have also put together some useful tips on making the most of your money during the recession as we appreciate that the added strain that can be put on families at this time can impact on everyone at home. Visit www.parentlineplus.org.uk/recessiontips

MAUREEN PEARSON, North East Area Manager, Parentline Plus, Lambton House, 10 Lambton Road, Jesmond, Newcastle."

We've had this format letter go out far and wide at a local level but the more support out there for parents, the better things will be. With unemployment set to go over 2 million today, there are a lot of families already in really crisis, and many more who are worried about what is around the corner.