We’re back to subjecting single mothers to blame and shame

THIS month we made a big step towards abolishing the idea that children need care over the age of seven. On July 3 we did away with the notion that children over 16 need care if they were receiving a One Parent Family payment before April 27, 2011.

We abolished care for children over 10 if their parents went on OPF between April 27 2011 and May 2, 2012. And abolished care for children over seven if their parents went on OPF after May 3.

It is estimated that 5,000 families will be affected this month, rising to 9,000 during the year and up to 60,000 by July of next year when the cuts have gone down to the quick.