Mum on welfare reveals how she spends almost $3500 on Christmas presents for her kids

A mother on welfare has revealed she manages to spend $580 on Christmas presents for each of her six children.

Claire Young, from the UK, said she suffers from chronic fatigue syndrome that leaves her feeling extremely exhausted and can no longer work.

But to ensure her children receive 11 gifts each at Christmas, Ms Young reveals she starts putting aside $87 a week from January each year.

"I put it in a pot every week and at the end of November I have a nice amount to go and buy Christmas presents," she told The Mirror.

Claire Young spends $580 on each of her six children at Christmas. Photo: ITV/ This Morning
Claire Young spends $580 on each of her six children at Christmas. Photo: ITV/ This Morning

Ms Young said each of her six children receive 11 gifts at a total cost of almost $3500.

But the mother has been criticised for being "over the top" and slammed for spending taxpayers' money on the presents.

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"This is taxpayers' money, the reason you’re on benefits is not to buy luxuries," one person said.

Ms Young responded to the criticism by saying the celebration was only once a year.

"Christmas is only once a year that’s how I see it and me and my partner don’t get each other anything it’s all about the kids," she told ITV.

Ms Young ensures her children receive 11 gifts each at Christmas. Photo: ITV/ This Morning
Ms Young ensures her children receive 11 gifts each at Christmas. Photo: ITV/ This Morning

"Nobody should tell me how to spend my money, I don’t drink, I don’t go out every weekend.

"I have one pair of shoes when these run out I will go and get another pair."