Budgeting on a benefit

There are almost 100,000 New Zealanders under 30 living on a benefit of some kind. Figures supplied to The Wireless by the Ministry of Social Development show that at the end of June, there were 12,053 people aged 18-19 receiving a benefit. There were 40,664 aged 20-24 and 37,778 in the 25-29 age range.  

So how do you plan for your future when you’re living week-to-week, with medical bills or travel to job interviews? 

Nelson’s Sarah Wilson has been sick for more than a year with an as-yet undiagnosed illness. Much of her life now is focussed on her couch, her cat Carina, and her computer. 

She’s been blogging about life on the sickness benefit, and she spoke to The Wireless’ Megan Whelan over Skype.