To feel guilty my children have nothing

Don’t feel bad - this is the right thing to do. Do ask for help, that’s a lot of children to sort out, all with different needs, the admin alone is full on - don’t beat yourself up. Once school is back, make sure you make your situation known to each school - in writing, and hopefully various local systems of support will kick in.

Would you be eligible for a food bank referral? Might help with the food situation.
Join the Facebook page for your local area. On mine, lots of logo school uniform for various schools in the area, and generic grey skirts/trousers/white shirts are always being offered for free. Worth checking.
How old are your DC?

Do you not get a school uniform grant? I think you would be eligible and it’s about £100 a kid. Should cover trainers and a jacket etc

Would you be able to find a part time job, or a job working from home?

I don't know if the Olio app is used much in your area, but you could put a "Wanted" post up for second hand shoes and coats. Olio is also really good for picking up free food.

I wouldn't worry about not having expensive days out. I grew up in a Middle Class home and we very rarely did days out that cost money, and it didn't even cross my mind that I was going without. This habit of having to have lavish family days out is quite recent and a bit over the top. When I was younger, we'd have a trip to a zoo or national trust place maybe once or twice a year, but it waz never an expectation. There are loads of ways to stay entertained without spending money.

You sound like a wonderful mum who was brave and strong enough to extract them from such a toxic situation. There are various free things you could do, try looking online at free events locally. Or seaside and picnic, eg. Or invite friends over for a sleepover and make pizzas and cookies? They're pretty cheap to make.
Fire pit and marshmallows? My teens love sitting around the fire with friends.
Re the uniform, you could ask on your local FB page if anyone has any uniform for sale, or ask the school if their PTA has any.

You've done the best thing possible by then in getting them out of an abusive household.
I know what it's like to be limited due to finances due to being on UC, so I don't have any words of wisdom, but has your area not had any free family/community events.
X

Hi OP,

Firstly, well done for getting out of that relationship - you have done such a great thing for your children.

Secondly, I am sure if you posted your area, someone would have some 2nd hand trainers, coats etc. I know I am often dropping things into the charity shop and would be more than happy to help someone local who was struggling, especially when things are going well in my life now but have not always been!

A small thing, but if your children are entitled to free school dinners, is there not a voucher system where you live? It's not great, but a little extra to help out.

It sounds very tough. What are your kids into? Could you take them to the library? So a games night or movie night?

Are you claiming everything you are entitled to?

Be as supportive as you can when they go back to school. Make sure they attend and do their homework.

Ultimately working on your mental health to get into a position where you can get a job is critical.

Your children will be all the better for being moved away from a horrible, abusive home and you being so brave to make that decision.
Life will get better for you all. Do your children actually seem bothered? I only ask as my two teens are actually happier left be , having friends over to hang out etc than big family days out.
Be proud of yourself for starting a new l8fe for your family x