Lauren Entwhistle, who also has two children, has also experienced financial pressures.
After struggling with postnatal depression and managing her finances, she turned to Atlas Women’s Centre in Lisburn for support – which she said helped her put her “back together”.
Now she works there helping other women.
She said the majority of women who turn to the centre for support are struggling financially.
“I’ve been through it myself,” she said. “Worrying about that every day affects your mental health.
“It’s the hub of everything, that’s why there is a big issue with mental health in this country. There aren’t enough resources to help everyone.
“A lot of the mums here would tell you even if they were getting an extra fiver a week, they would be grateful for anything.”
Entwhistle said many women carefully count every penny when shopping.
“It would be nice if politicians came and spoke to women, and realised how hard they have it.
“Every time these women go to the shop they have to think, about their budget, they are counting pennies… I know myself, there is a constant feeling of guilt, like we’re not doing enough.”
Entwhistle encouraged women who were struggling to seek help through local women’s centres who can connect women with other services.
“All you need to do is come through the door.
“Some people might not like the thought of going to the food bank, unfortunately there is a bit of shame around it.”
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