13^th May 2008

Chancellor recognises need to protect separated families

 

• 10p tax damage reduced by Alistair Darling’s decision to increase personal tax allowance
• Families Need Fathers (FNF) pleased that Treasury has committed to helping the families most in need

 

Following lobbying by Families Need Fathers, the government have relieved the pressure on some of Britain’s poorest families by increasing the level at which tax begins to be paid.

In isolation, the removal of the 10p rate would have put further financial pressure on divorced or separate parents who are not considered ‘parents with care’, and therefore considered ineligible for child tax credit despite caring for their children for significant amounts of time. The cost of care can be a considerable proportion of income, particularly for the low-paid, and the removal of the lower rate could have left some unable to afford to see their children.

Commenting on the Chancellor’s decision Jon Davies, CEO of FNF said:

 'Subject to examining the exact figures involved, we are encouraged that, following our representations, the Chancellor has listened to our anxieties, taken our suggestion of a more generous personal allowance, and that families already disadvantaged through the costs of shared care and the child tax credit system will be supported'

-  ENDS -

 Note for editors:

 

Jon Davies wrote to the Chancellor on behalf of Families Need Fathers on 25th April 2008 proposing that the Personal Tax Allowance be increased, in order to benefit those on the lowest incomes, particularly separated families and their children.

 

Families Need Fathers (FNF) is a registered charity providing information and support on shared parenting issues arising from family breakdown, and support to divorced and separated parents, irrespective of gender or marital status. Our primary concern is the maintenance of the child’s relationship with both parents. Founded in 1974, FNF helps thousands of parents every year.

 

 

For comment or information please contact:

Nick Barnard, Director of Communications 07979 206 384

John Baker, FNF Chair 07881 644 917

Jon Davies, FNF CEO 07976 935 986

Becky Sibert, Policy & Information Officer 020 7613 5060

 

Please see Families Need Fathers ‘programme for change’ Father’s Day Manifesto at