Handling money as a single parent can feel like a constant juggling act.
Between covering bills, keeping food on the table, and making sure your child has everything they need, the stress can pile up fast. It’s not just about making ends meet—it’s about planning for the future while managing the day-to-day. The good news? You don’t need a massive income to take control of your finances. Small, practical steps can help ease the burden and set you up for a more secure future. Here’s how to handle money troubles as a single parent without feeling completely overwhelmed.
1. Create a realistic budget that actually works.
Having a budget doesn’t mean cutting out everything fun—it just means knowing where your money is going. Start by listing your income and all necessary expenses like rent, food, and utilities. Be honest about what you can afford, and if there’s a gap, look for areas to adjust. Even small tweaks, like meal planning or cutting unused subscriptions, can free up extra cash.
2. Prioritise your must-pay expenses.
When money is tight, focus on the essentials first—housing, food, transportation, and childcare. These are your non-negotiables. If you’re struggling to cover everything, reach out for assistance. Many programs help with rent, groceries, and childcare costs, and there’s no shame in using them when you need to.
3. Build a small emergency fund (even if it’s slow).
Saving money can feel impossible when every penny counts, but even a tiny emergency fund can prevent bigger problems down the road. Start with a small goal—maybe £10 a week—and build from there. Having even a few hundred pounds set aside can make a huge difference when an unexpected bill pops up. It’s less about how much you save and more about having something to fall back on.
4. Find extra income where you can.
If your current income isn’t enough, look into ways to bring in a little more. Side gigs like freelancing, tutoring, or selling things online can help fill financial gaps. Even small boosts, like cashback apps or selling unused items, can help lighten the load. Every little bit adds up over time.
5. Look for financial support programs.
There are plenty of resources designed to help single parents, from government benefits to local community programs. Whether it’s tax credits, food assistance, or childcare support, these programs exist for a reason. Even if you think you won’t qualify, it’s worth checking. A little extra help can ease financial pressure and give you some breathing room.
6. Be smart with debt and avoid payday loans.
When money is tight, it’s tempting to turn to quick fixes like payday loans or credit cards, but the interest rates can trap you in a cycle of debt. Instead, look for lower-interest options if you need to borrow, or reach out to a financial advisor for help restructuring payments. Many organisations offer free financial advice to single parents.
7. Meal plan to cut down food costs.
Grocery shopping can drain your budget fast, but a little planning helps stretch your money further. Meal prepping, buying in bulk, and cooking at home can save a surprising amount. Stick to simple, budget-friendly meals, and avoid shopping when you’re hungry—it’s way too easy to grab things you don’t need.
8. Take advantage of secondhand and swap groups.
Kitting out a child is expensive, but you don’t have to buy everything brand new. Check charity shops, Facebook Marketplace, or local swap groups for clothes, toys, and baby gear. Many parents are happy to give away gently used items for free, so don’t be afraid to ask around. Kids grow fast, and there’s no need to spend a fortune on things they’ll outgrow in months.
9. Find affordable childcare options.
Childcare is one of the biggest expenses for single parents, but there are ways to reduce costs. Look into government-funded childcare programs, after-school clubs, or local co-op childcare swaps. If you have family or close friends nearby, see if they can help watch your child occasionally to give you a break and save on costs.
10. Be open with your kids (in an age-appropriate way).
You don’t need to stress your kids out with money worries, but being honest about finances teaches them valuable lessons. If you can’t afford something, explain it in a way they understand. Helping them appreciate the value of money early on can make them more mindful as they grow, and they may even come up with creative ways to have fun without spending.
11. Learn to say no (and not feel guilty).
It’s tough to tell your child no, especially when you want to give them the best. But saying no to unnecessary spending now means saying yes to financial security later. Kids don’t need every toy, gadget, or expensive activity to be happy. Focus on experiences, creativity, and time together instead of things that cost money.
12. Use free or cheap entertainment.
Fun doesn’t have to be expensive. Parks, museums with free days, libraries, and community events offer plenty of ways to keep kids entertained on a budget. Look for local activities, swap playdates with other parents, or check out online resources for free entertainment ideas.
13. Take care of yourself, too.
Single parents often put themselves last, but burnout won’t help anyone. Budgeting for yourself—whether that’s a small treat, time for exercise, or just a break—is just as important as paying bills. Taking care of your mental and emotional health makes it easier to handle financial stress and be present for your child.
14. Remember, you’re doing your best.
There’s a lot of pressure on single parents to do it all, but perfection isn’t the goal—stability is. Some months will be harder than others, and that’s okay. The fact that you’re reading this means you care and are trying to make things better, and that already puts you ahead. Keep going, keep learning, and take things one step at a time.
