A MOTHER from Bolton who cannot afford to feed her children has been highlighted in Parliament"

Speaking as part of the Finance Bill Committee, Bolton West MP Julie Hilling told MPs about the circumstances of two constituents who have approached her for help.

Ms Hilling said one woman, Nicola, a new mum who is on maternity leave and is unable to increase her hours above 16, has just lost her tax credit.

Another constituent, Lindsay, the mother of a two-year-old, works 18 hours a week and earns about £11,500 a year.

As her child care costs £400 a month and her rent is about £450 a month, her salary has effectively gone.

She used to receive £800 a month in tax credits, but now receives only £200 a month.

Her only option is to give up work, Ms Hilling said.

Both women asked to remain anonymous.

Ms Hilling said: “I hope that these stories are a wake-up call for ministers.Their changes to tax credits alone will hit 1,055 people across my constituency. More and more people are coming to me for help out of desperation.”