I am taking part in the British 10k to raise money for the Working Families Helpline for parents and their advisers, which gives advice on employment rights for parents and benefits for families. I am one of the small team of advisers on the helpline. We currently help over 3,000 people per year and, in the face of the huge legal aid cuts in recent years, offer a lifeline to those who may otherwise have their rights contravened and be denied justice. 

Feedback from the users of the Helpline shows just how vital it is:

‘I was so anxious. Talking to them helped me to do things properly. They probably saved my job.’

‘They were a real support for me at a time when I was really low.’

‘I cannot emphasise enough how much Working Families helped me... totally invaluable service.’

‘A marvellous support to working parents who are so often discriminated against.’

[Without Working Families’ help] ‘I would have dropped my case as I would have been overwhelmed so soon after having a baby.’

[Without Working Families’ help] ‘I would have no job at the moment. So no money or food.’

‘Without their help, I would be so depressed, I would have no money, it would be a really bad situation. They changed my life.’

‘I had lost all confidence and was emotionally wrecked by the way I had been treated. I had no idea how my family would manage without my income. Working Families helped me to pursue my case and gain a settlement. It gave me back my confidence and I feel able to face new challenges now. My family has its mum back.’

Over the years we have had some fantastic victories for those we have helped: compensation at employment tribunal for women discriminated against and made to do unsafe work while pregnant, helping a pregnant woman access Maternity Allowance which she was wrongly denied and keeping many of our callers in employment by helping them negotiate flexible working patterns.

However much we do, we are always aware that there are others who also need our help, by donating you will help us to reach those people.