Pensions Bill

Written evidence from Karen Tyler (PB 06)

Bereavement Support Payments

Part 3

27/28

I  am writing to you to express my concern at the proposed changes to Bereavement Benefits which will hit  those hard working contribution paying Families who become struck by tragedy when losing a Husband or Wife whilst raising a young family

I am alarmed how the proposals will affect such families, having been Widowed young in 2002, when I suddenly became the sole parent of two children aged 8 and 9.

The sudden death of a parent of young children is often sudden and unexpected, research has shown just how difficult the first two years of such a loss effect both the physical and emotional wellbeing of both bereaved partner and children.

Considering a one off payment at the beginning of the changed circumstances when poor financial decisions are often made and not considering the impact for younger children in respect of different periods and rates would be a huge mistake.

The existing Widowed Parents Allowance gives breathing space with financial support over a longer period of time , when it is invaluable, to enable these families to raise their children as well as they can possibly do. 

In addition it also recognises the hard work and contributions of those who died leaving a positive legacy to their memory.

The cost of the loss of often the higher wage earner also effects the lifestyle of these families, usually there is a mortgage which if covered by life assurance also means that a large enough single salary has to be earned to remain in the same property.

The existing benefits (which are contribution based) do help families to remain in their homes, which has a positive impact on children and also helps the sole parent to try and established a pattern of work which they are capable of doing whilst raising a family on their own.

Remember that over 70% of these current families were in employment before tragedy struck, they work hard, contribute to society and deserve both respect/empathy and support from a civilised society, please do not allow Society to stop recognising their unique and difficult circumstances in which they live.

Changing for changing sake is not always the best policy.

Saving money, no it won't, it will force some families into hardship and ultimately result in them needing additional emotional and financial support thus losing any proposed savings in the longer term

This is not just a personal opinion, I have been a member of Roadpeace and Widowed and Young and seen the difference the financial situation helps these families and the positive image of the late parent the benefit represents

June 2013