I know it isn't the only factor, but after my dad walked and my mum was left with 4 kids and claiming benefits it was a pretty large factor in my upbringing. I have less than fond memories of sitting around Kemley House while they sorted out how much to deduct from her benefits each week because she dared to earn more than a fiver in her part time cleaning job. We'd have been quids in under Labour, but they were to the other extreme which I also disagree with.
Luckily once my youngest brother was old enough to go to school she could get a proper job, but it wasn't exactly an option until then. So yeah, pretty important factor really.