The sisters’ circumstances may be different, but they share the same underlying worry: will the money stretch
far enough?
Their stories challenge one of the biggest misconceptions about financial hardship in Britain today – that there
is a clear divide between people who work and people who claim benefits. For millions of households, the reality is far more complicated.
How an accident at work changed everything
Before her injury, Nicola, 44, was working and financially independent. Afterwards, she found herself navigating the benefits system while caring for her teenage son, who has additional needs.
As her income fell, everyday costs became harder to manage. Energy bills rose. Food became more expensive. One missed…