How Divorced Women in the U.K. Can Feel Secure

Studies show that the income of divorced women falls by 64% and many women are forced to move out of the marital home and stay in poor rented accommodation. Research from the Office for National Statistics reveals a shocking fact: 40% of divorced women over the age of 65 are impoverished enough to qualify for financial support from the state.

Equality campaigner, Dr. Katherine Rake says that there's a 'black hole in women's savings, and unless they learn to save, they can only look forward to a 'bleak financial future'.

Despite all the battles fought for equal rights, women who work full time still earn 17 percent less than men do, and if they work part time, they earn 38 percent less than men who work part time.

According to Dr. Rake, women should put away more savings for long-term family needs instead of focusing on short term needs. She says that too many women depend on their partners for financial support which is all right if they stay together forever and share their resources equally, but today 40% of marriages end in divorce and a financially dependent woman is certainly taking a risk.

Another reason that women are less likely to recover financially after a divorce is the fact that for various reasons such as caring for their families, they allow their careers to take a back seat during their marriage, or they simply give up their jobs. But with their 'it could never happen to me' attitude, they are totally unprepared for the greater responsibilities that would burden them after a divorce. They have to take care of themselves, as well as their children, which means they may even work longer hours.

When it comes to the matter of pension, women have no legal rights to their husband's pensions and themselves earn pensions which are too small (since they earn less) to help in any significant way. Compared to 85% of men, only 30% of women qualify for a full state pension.

Therefore, one in five women is likely to face poverty in old age.

However, there's good news now on the pension front. An amendment in the pension bill has been passed recently which allows women with interrupted work records to purchase up to nine extra years so they can qualify for a full state pension. Liberal Democrats have hailed this move as a 'historic victory' for women.

Secure Your Future

Financial advisor, Tom McPail says, "The key is to start early". He believes that delaying the saving process can have huge consequences. He points out that if a 25 year old woman waits till she is 30 to start saving, her retirement income will be cut by about a third.

Savings: Make good use of your yearly tax-free savings allowance. Each year take out an individual savings account.

Pension: It will be well worth it to pay the limit into a personal pension every year. The flexibility of a personal pension is an added advantage, since it will be available to you whether you are working or not. What's more, you can contribute to it whenever funds allow and can take a payment holiday when you're not working.

At work: You can join a company scheme if you are working, because usually your employer will also contribute to it. Don't forget to check whether an employee benefit package includes a pension scheme, or some health or life insurance.

How Divorced Women Can Keep Mind and Body Fit

Make some time at least three times a week - at least half an hour - to exercise. Take a walk in the park to boost your circulation and energy, do some yoga to keep fit in both mind and body. Join a yoga class and make some new friends. Exercise will make you feel good about how you look and prepare you for the new beginning that lies ahead. The truth is that your life can be even better than before provided you want it to be.

Taking Care of Children After Divorce

Once you are feeling fit and looking good, you will be a happier mother. You will be able to bring your life back on track again, and so have an amicable relationship with your ex. His presence is as important for your children as yours. You are the nurturer, the one who teaches the children what is right and wrong, and he is the one who can make sure that they act accordingly.

Always encourage them to spend time with their father, and avoid speaking negatively about him in front of your children.
Also, be aware that bringing in a boyfriend will heighten their feelings of insecurity. If you must date, don't bring your date home with you. If you keep these tips in mind, there is no reason why you can't be a successful single parent, and a happy individual.