TikToker hits back at trolls, explains why she chooses to splurge on children’s presents despite prior universal credit

In a social media storm, TikTok user Whitney Ainscough, known as @itsmebadmom, has faced criticism and backlash after revealing her plans to spend over $12,000 on Christmas gifts for her three children. The British mom, who had been receiving Universal Credit due to the ongoing cost of living crisis, defended her decision, arguing that she is legally entitled to spend the money as she saved from her benefits.

Whitney, a 30-year-old influencer, clarified that she has stopped claiming benefits after generating income from her online influence. However, this didn’t prevent the controversy surrounding her decision to allocate a substantial budget for her children’s gifts this Christmas.

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The mom highlighted that she sees the holiday splurge as a way of treating her kids, emphasizing that they deserve the best after a challenging year. She expressed pride in spoiling her children and maintained that the money saved from benefits was rightfully hers.

Whitney provided insights into the extravagant wishes of her children, including a $1.5k solid gold bracelet, acrylic nails, hair extensions, a top-of-the-range VR gaming kit, the latest iPhone and iPad, designer trainers and clothes, and a two-night stay at Peppa Pig World for her youngest.

Despite the criticism from online trolls, Whitney asserted her stance, stating, “I don’t care what the trolls think. I’m a benefits mum, living in a council house who’s spending thousands on her kids for Christmas, and I’m proud.” She emphasized that her joy comes from seeing her children happy on December 25 and that she has no desire for lavish gifts for herself.

The controversy has ignited discussions on social media, with users expressing varying opinions on parenting, spending habits, and the ethics of using benefits for holiday extravagance.