THE (LACK OF) HELP FOR SINGLE-PARENT FAMILIES: ANALYSIS ON THE POSSIBLE EXTENSION OF BPC/LOAS TO THE REALITY OF SINGLE MOTHERS

Abstract

The aim of this article is to analyze the lack of protection for single-parent families who, despite being in a situation of social vulnerability, do not meet the requirements for receiving the Continuous Cash Benefit (BPC) under the Organic Law on Social Assistance (LOAS), as well as to investigate possible ways of solving this problem. Initially, the concept of the single-parent family is analyzed and, using statistical data, the profile of the people who make up this type of family arrangement is identified: mainly women. Secondly, the objectives of Social Assistance are analyzed, as well as its understanding as a fundamental right for individuals who are in a situation of vulnerability. Finally, the possibility of granting BPC to single-parent families is analyzed, especially taking into account the income criterion required by the legislation, which is not met in many cases and, therefore, it is up to the Judiciary to allow - or not - the flexibilization of this criterion. The research is bibliographical in nature and aims to answer the research problem: “is it possible, as a measure to guarantee the dignity of the human person, to grant BPC/LOAS to single-parent families who are in a situation of vulnerability, but who do not meet the per capita income requirement demanded by social security legislation?”.