Singing through struggle with three jobs
"I had a bit of a nightmare moving into my place because it wasn't quite ready, so I had five months where I didn't really have anywhere to live, which was a bit scary.”
Member Colette singing through struggle
Our Slice of Life campaign is calling on the Government to make life more affordable for working households. As part of this, we’re highlighting stories from families across the UK who are working hard but still struggling to stay afloat. Families just like Colette’s.
By all appearances, Colette had a stable, fulfilling life. A professional singer, vocal coach, and part-time care worker, she was raising two children in Altrincham and juggling a busy working schedule. But beneath the surface, she was facing a financial crisis that would reshape her life.
A new chapter
The turning point came in late 2021, following the breakdown of her marriage. Like many relationships strained during the COVID-19 pandemic, hers ended in divorce, bringing with it a wave of unexpected financial pressure. Suddenly, Colette was on her own, trying to establish a new home while continuing to care for her children, aged 14 and 7. For five months, she had no permanent place to live.
"I had a bit of a nightmare moving into my place because it wasn't quite ready, so I had five months where I didn't really have anywhere to live, which was a bit scary.”
A three job juggle
Colette’s story is far from unique. There’s a growing number of people who now find themselves living paycheck to paycheck, sometimes in need of help just to put food on the table.
Despite working three jobs, as a school singing teacher, a private vocal coach, and a care worker, she struggles to make ends meet. Financial help from her parents secured a roof over her head, but daily expenses remain tightly controlled. Treats like takeaway meals or trips to the cinema have become rare luxuries.
Saying yes to support
It was a fellow care worker who first mentioned The Bread and Butter Thing. At first, Colette was sceptical. “It sounded too good to be true,” she admits. But now it’s become a regular part of her life. Every other week, she picks up her food bag and transforms it into what her children call “mystery dinners” fun, creative meals made from whatever happens to be inside that week’s bag. They help Colette ensure her family gets healthy, varied meals without breaking the bank.
Living in Altrincham, an affluent area in Greater Manchester, Colette is aware her situation isn’t the usual food support story. Financial hardship can hit anyone, no matter their background or education. The cost of living, rising housing expenses, and life’s unexpected changes are pushing more people into vulnerability.
Colette says, “I look at my friends, big houses and everything and I kind of think maybe I'm supposed to be living in a, a big house somewhere. But I just love that my flat is mine and I've been able to achieve it because it was hard fought and hard won financially and you know, just practical stuff.”
Listen to Colette’s podcast right here.