Sylvia Heal

Labour Party | Halesowen and Rowley Regis

Sylvia Heal MP and Usdaw help working parents claim the benefits they're entitled to

3 June 2009

Sylvia Heal MP 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.

Sylvia Heal MP 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.

"I am also pleased to give my personal commitment to 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 even more children out of poverty."

John Hannett, Usdaw's General Secretary, is delighted with Sylvia Heal'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".

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

Copies can be downloaded at www.usdaw.org.uk