[Margaret Pilkington]

Yes, I know what you are saying, but I think it could be delivered in a better way. Perhaps it would be more use to give free child care places rather than money.

Child care is expensive and if parents received that instead of money then it would incentivise working and would free up some of their current cash to make life better for them.
If the political will is not there to determine where the need is greatest, then it will not change.
If the benefit were means tested, it still would not necessarily reach those in most need as they may not apply for it because of te scrutiny it would direct to their financial affairs.