Being a dad means providing, protecting, and keeping your children safe. But what happens when the system meant to support you fails?
Phillip Herron, a 34-year-old single father of three from Durham, England, took his own life in 2019 after waiting weeks for his first Universal Credit payment. With only £4.61 in his bank account and nearly £20,000 in debt—including payday loans with interest over 1,000%—he felt he had no way out.
Just hours before his death, Phillip shared a photo of himself crying in his car, followed by a heartbreaking note saying his family would be better off without him. His mother, Sheena, was devastated to learn the full extent of his struggle only after he died. His children, too, were left emotionally broken and without access to therapy.
Universal Credit, a UK welfare program, is meant to simplify benefits, but long waiting periods have left many in crisis. Phillip’s story sparked public outrage and raised serious concerns about the system’s impact on vulnerable people.
Sheena now speaks out in hopes of saving others from the same fate, urging people to talk and seek help. Phillip’s story is a powerful reminder of how dangerous silence, debt, and bureaucratic failure can be.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek support. Help is available.