COVID-19 has impacted upon us all, but in markedly different ways. Today, I shared findings from our @NuffieldFound #covidrealities project on the mental health impact on families living on a low-income. Danni described the isolation she faced as 'really debilitating' (Thread...)

Dotty G described how: "our months have become filled with stress & anxiety on how to financially survive a month..." #covidrealities, documenting the intersecting challenges of parenting & getting by in poverty during a pandemic

While the work of parenting adding to the pressures families faced, their children were also a source of comfort in difficult times. Lola described "hours spent listening and laughing at my silly kids with their lovely crazy minds and ideas" #covidrealities

Many of the participants expressed feelings, which will resonate with many of us, whatever our income or household status. As Connie put it, "Although life continues every day, there’s a feeling in the pit of my stomach that things are not right." #covidrealities

But for families living on a low-income, financial pressures are biting: "Hopelessness bites. I’ve got no money again until the end of the month. The food parcel we get are making me feel sick, all these high salt tinned goods are giving me headaches and the runs." (Victoria B)

The social security response was too often experienced as inadequate, & the mechanisms of applying for support led to humiliating & stigmatising interactions: "Now, I am worse off in debt, in dire straits. It (Universal Credit) never lasts till end of month." Ted S

Parenting on a low-income is always hard work; but it's become harder still since COVID hit. The social security response falls short in providing adequate support to parents & their children, with inevitable negative impacts for mental health of affected parents & their children