By Amber Ali

The cost of living has been rising in recent months in the UK and across the world.

Many single parents are worried about how they can afford basic necessities for their children during the winter period as well as giving their kids a wonderful Christmas this year.

Young mother Fatima Akhtar, from Glasgow, is worried about her little girl not having a cheerful Christmas this December.

Fatima was 19 years old when she had her first and only child. Her daughter is now 4 years old and she is worried how Christmas will turn out for her this year.

“The struggle is definitely there,” she said. “Even when you feel prepared… it is still how do I try and get out of this and trying to make them understand maybe next year. There’s only so many excuses you’ve got.”

Fatima has the sole responsibility of providing for her daughter financially and she admits it has been especially challenging given the rising cost of living, including housing, childcare and other essential necessities.

“I need to prioritise do I get food, do I get fuel, why don’t we just have pasta? It’s gauging what you can do with the limits you’ve got.” She said.

The added pressure of providing for their children during the festive season can further worsen a single parents financial difficulties. Many single parents may find it difficult to afford gifts, decorations, and Christmas dinner, which can lead to feelings of stress and guilt.

Grandmother of 3, Shamshad Mirza says her daughter and granddaughter had to move back into her home as they were unable to afford the rising costs this year.

“The cost of living, food prices, the rent, everything has just went up. People wont be able to afford Christmas presents, the prices have went sky high

My kids are struggling, one of my daughters moved back in with me and she’s waiting for a helping hand. I watch my grandchildren 3 times a week because of how high childcare costs are” she said in a recent interview.

260 single parents took part in the One Parent Families Scotland consultation. 96% of the participants revealed were women and the majority of single parents are in paid work. The key findings highlighted that almost all 97.9% of participants feel the impact of the rising costs of living. With 61.1% admitting they find it difficult or could no longer afford electricity. 43.7% say the same about food.

Research conducted by Gingerbread also shows that 76% of single-parent families are in debt and are struggling to cope.

Many families have to pick and choose between which bills to pay, which food products are essential and now with the lead-up to Christmas, if they can get their kids something from Santa.

A charity based in Glasgow; Home-Start helps to support young people with children at their most challenging times. During the Christmas period, Home-Start includes a Christmas present appeal which sees gifts being given to the families they support.

There is also access to group support, parental mental health and a volunteer to support parents. If you would like to find out more about the charity, volunteer or ask for help this Christmas, please click here: