Natasha’s Story: The sole provider for her family at age 15

Natasha in 2015 Photo Credit: Natasha

‘I couldn’t save any money because I had to pay for bills, rent and Christmas presents for my family’

‘I remember bringing home my wages for the first time in brand new white envelope and I was so excited, but my mum told me she needed my help, and all my money went on electricity for the week; I knew from then I was going to be the one who earned for my family’, Natasha tells Child Poverty Awareness.

After just one week of part-time work at 15, she knew she was never going to be able to save her hard-earned money.

‘Zero hour’s contracts adding to child poverty issue’ say Children in Wales

‘Poverty Premium is one of the biggest reasons for rise in child poverty in Wales’

Photograph of Catriona Williams, CEO of Children in Wales Photo Credit: Children in Wales

‘Zero hour contracts that companies like Sports Direct are giving out are providing a lack of consistency in salaries and leaving families questioning how they are going to make ends meet each week.’ says Cheryl Martin, development officer for child poverty at charity organisation Children in Wales . She goes on to say ‘this is a huge problem in Wales, as having a zero hour’s contract and inconsistent pay means many families can’t use direct debit payment methods for bills and utilities and end up paying more than those with stable incomes, this is known as “poverty premium”’.