A MOTHER who struggled to bring up her child and care for her sick father claimed £3,992 in false benefits, a court heard.

Single mother Jill Franklin, 27, of Holly Hill, Shildon, continued to claim social security despite getting a job as a factory packer.

Franklin, who admitted making false claims, was given 12 months probation and ordered to attend a citizenship programme.

Alison Banks, for Franklin, said once her daughter was born, she was unable to cope with the added expense and the child's father was unable to pay maintenance.

She said: "I understand her father at the time had trouble with incapacity money and she was helping him out by feeding him. She feels as though she's giving and giving, but getting nothing back."