Single and caring for a child

Generally, a single client caring for a dependent child will get the Sole Parent Support (where their partner is deceased).

Where the client cannot get Sole Parent Support, Jobseeker Support or any other benefit, Emergency Benefit may be considered.

Note where it is justified an Emergency Benefit is to be granted equivalent to Sole Parent Support for a client where their youngest dependent child is under the age of 14 years, Emergency Maintenance Allowance is the appropriate Emergency Benefit.

Situations include:

• split care - other parent getting Sole Parent Support

Note if the court has ordered a split care arrangement, both parents can get Sole Parent Support

In addition to this:

• the child must be dependent and
• the client cannot work or look for work because they are caring for the child

When a client is caring for a child that is not their own, consider the following:

• Can the client be considered as the parent of the child
• What are the reasons they are caring for the child?
• How long will they be caring for the child?
• If long term, are more formal arrangements being considered (for example adoption)?
• Have any other reasonable caring arrangements been considered?
• Do the parents of the child have the ability to contribute to the cost of care?
• Is the child a qualifying child for Unsupported Childs Benefit or Orphans Benefit?

Note this emergency assistance is only available in cases of genuine need where a person has accepted responsibility for a child. It is not an incentive for people to take children into their care.