Alex's Answer

My dad complains about my school fees

Your Question

Hi Alex ,my father always came to the house complaining to me on how he spends on my school fees as if he wants me to go and get a job and help him pay my school fees ,he also always says he doesn’t have money and he goes to his work daily am always depressed so much that i feel i want to get out of this earth what should I do so as to not feel like a burden. 

Answer

Hello! Thank you for getting in touch with Ask Alex. We understand that it can be tough to talk about what’s going on in your life, and we appreciate you speaking with us.
 
You mentioned your father’s concerns about school fees and his financial situation. It might seem like you’re the reason for his complaints, but from what you’ve written, that’s not the case. School fees are causing his complaints, and you going to school is separate from that. As a child, you have the right to an education. You can learn more about this right in the following article: www.childrensrights.ie/sites/default/files/submissions_reports/files/KYRRightToEducation2015.pdf.
 
Additionally, there are support schemes available to assist parents facing difficulties with school fees. You can find information on this in this article: www.citizensinformation.ie/en/education/primary-and-post-primary-education/educational-supports/financial-help-with-school/.
 
You also asked what you can do to not feel like a burden, given your dad’s complaints about school fees impacting your health. According to Citizens Information, young people between 16 and 17 years old can work for a maximum of 40 hours per week, with no more than 8 hours a day, and only between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. You can read the full article here: www.citizensinformation.ie/en/employment/starting-work-and-changing-job/young-people-at-work/rights-of-young-workers/ However, if you’re under 16, the rules change. If you’re 14 or younger, it’s illegal for you to work.
 
We’re sorry to hear you’re feeling like a burden and experiencing depression. Feeling like a burden is challenging, but it can be addressed. It’s not your fault, and young children shouldn’t be burdened with such responsibilities. There are ways to stop feeling this way, like talking to trusted individuals, reaching out to us at Ask Alex or Childline, discussing with friends or teachers, and addressing these feelings when they arise. These are just a few suggestions, and we hope they’re helpful.
 
Speaking with people outside your family might offer a fresh perspective, and Childline is a safe place to do so. Our team is here to listen, without judgment, and to explore options available to you. We’re available every day, around the clock, at 1800 66 66 66 or online at www.childline.ie/ (click the orange Live Chat tab to start a chat).
 
Thank you again for reaching out, and remember, we’re always here to listen.
 
Alex

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