The Young Women’s Trust (YWT) published the “What matters to young mums?” report in March 2017.
Between October 2016 and February 2017, the Young Women’s Trust conducted research with mothers aged under 25 to find out what was important to them, and what they thought about work, children and employment support.
The report found that:
- 61% of mothers aged 16-24 said that they were only just managing financially.
- A quarter (27%) of young mums currently used foodbanks or had used them in the past.
- Young mothers feel that they are judged negatively because of their age. They are criticised by members of public and feel alienated from mainstream mother and toddler groups.
Recommendations:
- The 15 hours free childcare should be available year-round rather than 38 weeks in a year to enable young women on low pay to reap the benefits of work.
- YWT would like to see the National Living Wage extended so it applies to those under the age of 25.
- YWT recommends that the NHS review its practice and training about bias or discrimination related to young motherhood.
Download the full report.
