For the first time, fewer than 10,000 people received transition allowance or child care benefits in September. The number of recipients has never been lower according to welfare statistics director Lone Dahlin Arntsen. She made the statement in a recent government release.
This year shows 664 fewer people receiving these benefits compared to last year. A decade ago, there were 6,000 more recipients than current September figures.
Benefits for single parents have existed for over 100 years, though the current system dates from 1965. The decline appears to stem from multiple factors.
Arntsen noted fewer children being born and more parents sharing childcare equally. Analyses also show more single parents now have higher incomes, making them ineligible for benefits. Eligibility rules have also become stricter over time.
Among current recipients, 40% are employed while 14% are job seekers. Another 11% are students, 8% care for sick children, and 15% have health issues themselves. Nearly 10% have infants under one year old.
Most recipients only receive transition allowance, which applies to four out of five single parents getting Nav support. The system continues to evolve as family structures and employment patterns change in Norway.