Tax credit anger (From Barry And District News)

Tax credit anger

BARRY families are furious the new system of benefits has left them without money for over a month.

And some residents are so angry at the recent Government changes to the Tax Credit system, they have even launched a pressure group.

Karen Ashton of Coychurch Rise has a seven-year old son Kieran and looks after her two grandchildren Liam Williams, three, and Paris Williams, two.

But since the new Family Tax Credit was launched, Karen insists she has not received any payments.

The 43 year old told the News: "The advert says 'it's money with your name on it' but I wouldn't know, because I haven't seen any yet.

When I finally got through on their helpline, I used over £15 credit on my mobile.

They keep saying I've got the cheque in my account, but I haven't had a payment since March 31.

"My husband Paul is a HGV driver, and his wages pay the household bills. But it's difficult to tell your son he can't have new football boots."

Her friend Annette Nesbitt from Poets Field added: "I suffered two mini strokes two years ago and I'm registered disabled.

I'm a part-time hairdresser, and rely on the family credit. I get credit for two children and it's my son's eighth birthday next week.

How can I tell Connor he won't have anything to open?"

Karen added: "Other parents we meet at Oakfield Primary are in the same boat.

There's one mum who had a letter saying she was earning £16,000 a year.

She works two days a week on the minimum wage.

If they want people to go back to work, they better sort this out."

A spokesman for the Department of Work and Pensions said families claiming the four weekly payments should receive the by May 2.

If you are experiencing problems with the Family Tax Credit and would like to join the group, contact her on 07810135126.