what can we save???

hostie

As long as one of you is working full time you will probably get tax credit.

Also, your wife might be entitled to the money that they give to young people to keep studying. I know that she isn't under 17 but they also give it to older people who didn't get the grades first time around. I don't know much about it but if you search this site you might find more info.

There is a link to the government checker on Martin's pages somewhere I think. Have a look at what other benefits you might be entitled to. Even if you earn a fiar bit then you might be entitled to some. Might it be worth your wife signing up for an extra class in order to get the student card, council tax reduction etc. I know that some people take classes that they don't actually intent to invest much time and effort into.

There are loads of charities etc that help in cases like yours. Do a bit of research. You could try the welfare office at the college as someone above suggests and they may or may not be helpful. Your wife might want to consider taking on a part time job too. If she needs to be with the children then perhaps she could consider helping other people with childcare in the morning (breakfast club style) or something.

If she does manage to get the student card you will then get various discounts: 10% off at the co-op supermarket I think, 10% off at Dorothy Perkins and Burton, a very good deal at Domino's pizza which I can't remember but you have to ask for etc etc.

Good luck. Studying is a struggle but it will be worth it in the long run.

steiff1

we cannot get a reduction in council tax, as although she is full time doing 18hrs, the reduction has to be for 21hrs a week!

and every charity we have written too, has said no they cannot help.

it is definitely gonna be a struggle, so it had better be worth it!