A single mum of two has said "work is not enough for some families" as damning new figures reveal the extent of Norwich’s child poverty plight.
Michelle, who lives in the north of Norwich and asked for her surname to not be used, lived in poverty when her first child was just 11 months old.
"It was difficult because my employer at the time wasn’t flexible," she said.
"And there was a lack of affordable childcare so I had to give up work.
"I also had health issues so it was difficult to find another job."
Michelle's comments follow the news that three in 10 Norwich children are currently living in poverty - equating to more than 11,000 kids.
On the data, compiled by the End Child Poverty Coalition, Norwich North MP Chloe Smith said the best way to tackle the issue is "parents being in work".
But many say this is not enough for some low-income families.
"The perception is that all parents are able to work but some aren’t for healthcare reasons or because they’re disabled," said Michelle, who is in her 40s.
"There are so many pressures on parents and work has to suit the circumstances of a family.
"And often being a single income family means work just isn’t enough – especially with the cost of living being what it is."
Michelle, whose experiences have encouraged her to campaign against child poverty, now has a full-time job with a charity.
But despite her success in achieving a sustainable income, she now battles with a persistent fear of regression.
"Things have improved for me a lot," she said.
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"But there are still challenges and the cost of living crisis makes me worry about sliding backwards.
"I felt that on a good salary I would be able to make my bills more easily and enjoy life, however, the bills are now taking up more and more of my pay.
"I worry I could lose what I rebuilt.
"But now I run initiatives including a swapping uniform shop as part of my campaigning.
"And I'd encourage everyone to donate to local food banks, baby banks and clothes banks.
"It’s important for people to remember that this could happen to any family."
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