Council house mum gives child, 11, £500-a-month in pocket money

A mum living in a council house who gives her 11-year-old daughter £500 pocket money each month has defended her decision, saying "I don't see the problem".

Whitney Ainscough revealed that her daughter spends the money on acrylic nails and designer shoes. The TikToker said she keeps an eye on what her child buys and plans to give her other children, aged five and two, similar amounts when they get older.

The 30-year-old believes this will teach them about the value of money and financial responsibility. Despite acknowledging that people think she's "absolutely mad", Whitney doesn't see any issue with her approach.

READ MORE:

• 'I'm 63 and expecting a baby with husband, 26 - we can't wait to start our family'

• 'Sick' vegan family send neighbours threatening note over BBQ

In a viral video posted on TikTok on, Whitney stated: "I personally don't see the problem. If I can afford to do that, then why not?"

However her comments divided opinion, with many believing it was too much to give to children. One TikTok user said: "Put it away for a deposit for her house."

A second added: "Jesus, my 14-year-old gets £60 a month! We live a very fortunate life but that seems very excessive. What's her incentive to go get a job at 16?" A third posted: "I'd personally put it in a savings so interest gets added and there will be a huge chunk for her when she turns 18 or 21."

The Mirror reports that Whitney was on Universal Credit up until just a few months ago - and now makes cash through her TikTok account @itsmebadmom. She told Fabulous that she made £17,000 in February, but said: "I'm not fleecing the taxpayer, something I have been accused of by followers on TikTok. I am not committing benefit fraud."

"I was legally entitled to Universal Credit and I've paid into the system for many years. And after on one occasion making more than £2,000 in a week through my TikTok videos, I've now come off benefits and make an average of £800 a week." The Mirror has contacted Whitney for comment.