Tips for working parents

Taking up employment as a parent has its own unique challenges.

Additional costs

Factor in new expenses like travel, lunch and equipment.

Time managment

Work out your travel time to and from work – including droping off and picking up children.

Benefits

Are you eligible for Child Benefit or other types of benefit? 

Citizens Advice provides online help, 10am to 4pm on weekdays.

Easing financial pressure

Don't spend all your hard-earned cash on overpriced bills.

Review your utilities (gas, water and electric) and other outgoings.

Use comparison and switching sites to get the best deals.

Find out about home energy grants.

Moving into employment is a major change. Allow yourself time to adapt.  

What if I'm feeling anxious and overwhelmed?

Talk to people. Friends, family and other parents. 

If you can't chat in person, go on forums for parents like Gingerbread and Mumsnet.

You’ll find that you’re not alone – and come across useful advice to help you cope.

Treat yourself

Give yourself small treats like: 

• taking a scented bath at the end of the day; 
• having a manicure/pedicure;
• starting a book you’ve been meaning to read;
• or doing something just because you enjoy it.

Healthy body, healthy mind

Use exercise, meditation or mindfulness to help you deal with everyday challenges. 

There are lots of online videos that can help. 

Don’t forget you're not alone, there are parents in a similar position.

Guilt is something many working parents experience. 

There isn’t one proven way to deal with it. But here are some things that have worked for others.  

1. Remind yourself (frequently) that you're not the only parent dealing with these feelings. 
2. Remind yourself that we all have our challenges
3. Realise there will be a trade-off. You won’t be able to be there all the time. Plan in routines with your child to make your time even more special. 
4. Prepare as much as you can beforehand and make good use of lists.    
5. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself at home or at work.
6. Go with the flow, be flexible and willing to change.
7. Tell yourself that no situation lasts for ever – things will change.
8. If it all gets a bit much, find a quiet space and take some deep breaths before returning to the situation.

Working is going to:

• Benefit your mental health.
• Improve your self esteem.
• Help widen your social circle.
• Give you more financial independence and security.