A father of three from Brighton, UK, who relies on benefits for his family’s living, has opened up about his lifestyle, defending his decision not to work. He insists that he isn’t taking advantage of the system.
Meet Matt Allen, a resident of a council house with his partner and three children. Matt openly admits that he has no plans to seek full-time employment. Instead, he dedicates a few hours each week to teaching yoga, believing that a full-time job doesn’t align with his values.
The show “Stacey Dooley Sleeps Over” recently featured a visit to Matt’s family, aiming to explore their unconventional way of life.
During her stay, host Stacey discovered that Matt’s children share beds with him and his partner, a decision that aligns with their belief in allowing the kids to make choices—even about when to eat and brush their teeth.
Although the children experience certain freedoms, Matt enforces specific rules, such as avoiding vaccinations and conventional medicine. He feels these choices contribute to minimal societal impact.
“Are we abusing the system? I genuinely believe we’re not,” remarked Matt. “We have a minimalist impact on society in many respects. We save money on social systems like schools and the NHS. Adele didn’t have births at the hospital, which also saved funds, so in our unique, unconventional way, we balance things out.”
When confronted by Stacey about the perception of working parents, Matt advised, “Spend more time with your kids—it’s simple. I simply don’t see myself working a 45 or 50-hour week as it goes against my natural inclinations.”
Alongside his partner, Adele, Matt manages an Instagram profile where they document their family life. Adele mentioned in a post, “We leave toothbrushes in the bathroom but avoid fluoridated toothpaste and don’t enforce teeth brushing.”
The episode further revealed that their 8-year-old isn’t able to write his own name yet, but the family isn’t concerned, believing he’ll learn in due time.
“What’s it stopping him from doing, other than meeting test requirements?” questioned Adele. “I don’t know of any home-schooled kids who don’t eventually acquire literacy skills. At eight years old, he’s got plenty of time to learn, so it’s not pressing.”
What’s your perspective on this family’s approach to life? Would you like to share your thoughts?
