Struggling with the costs of Christmas as a single parent? You’re not alone

Christmas can be tough for single parents, with many feeling the financial strain.  

If you’re a single parent worried about the cost of Christmas, then you’re not alone.  

Here’s what our 2024 ‘cost of Christmas’ survey found: 

• A third (34%) of single parents have missed paying a bill to cover Christmas costs.  

• Half of single parents with three or more children say being alone makes it harder for them to afford Christmas. 

• One in 10 used credit to pay for Christmas last year, with half taking up to three months to repay the debt. 

• Single dads expect to spend £300-£400 on their kids, while 32% of single mums can only afford £100-£200. 

• 12% of mums will use credit or – buy now, pay later (BNPL), even though they earn 5% less than dads. 

• Despite the financial pressure, 66% of single parents have never spoken about money worries with their kids.  

Single parents more affected by money worries  

Both our survey results and data show single parents are more likely to worry about money. 

Most of the single parents we’ve supported this year are mums who often aren’t working due to illness, disability, or being a homemaker.  

Our data shows:  

• 24% of single parents rely on child maintenance to help with costs. 

• Around 20% are impacted by the two-child cap, which limits benefit support to two children. 

• Single parents typically have a budget shortfall of £244. For those with one child, the deficit averages £219. This amount increases to £286 for families with three or more children. 

• 87% of single parents rent, with a third in arrears. 

• 4% are homeless or living in temporary accommodation. 

• Nearly two-thirds of single parents are paying £200 a month for their energy bills, having fallen an average of 12 months behind on payments. 

• 15% of single parents owe money through BNPL, averaging £425 per debt. 

• Two-thirds report vulnerabilities, with 53% struggling with mental health issues. 

Sebrina McCullough, our director of external relations, says being a single parent is tough, especially at Christmas. 

“What parent doesn’t want to create the perfect Christmas for their child? So it’s tough when you can’t afford to give them everything they want or that their friends have. No more so than for those with three or more children who are also affected by the two-child limit, so they lose out on additional help with their third child,” she says.  

Her advice to single parents: “Create a budget and stick to it. Don’t be tempted to add more because you’ll only have to pay it off next year. Speak to your children about your situation – kids are far more understanding and resilient than they’re given credit for. And create your own low-cost traditions to make Christmas special without buying the latest toy or gadget.” 

If you're still struggling after Christmas, seek help: “There are lots of free support services available that are experienced in helping single parents with complex finances. Don’t struggle on alone.”  

Christmas on a budget 

You can enjoy the holiday season without overspending.  

We’ve put together some ways you can enjoy the cheer without the financial fear, like by shopping from charity shops, swapping items instead of buying presents, or doing secret Santa. 

Rather than buying expensive new tech, opt for refurbished gadgets. Or have a go at making your own festive cookie or cake jar mixes  to offer to your family and friends. 

Christmas food can be pricey. Here’s where to head to for the cheapest ingredients on offer for your Christmas dinner.