Before anybody comes for me, I know we have equal rights as parents of our 2 children, but I just can't agree to this. Abit of back ground...
Me and my ex were together for 10 years and have 2 children together dd 12 and ds 5. We've been separated for 4 years now. My ex has always been rubbish with money and in the past gambled and used his money for drugs (withoit me knowing) and so i have always provided for the family. I am completely opposite, I had saved over 12k towards purchasing a house prior to us separating. My ex ia very controlling and I now believe I was in an emotionally abusive relationship. Friends and family have all said the same. He would always manipulate me and make me feel guilty if I didn't lend him money. Over the last few years I have "lent" my ex money for bills etc, and he's also threatened on several occasions to kill himself because he lost his job and has nobody but me and the kids. He knows exactly what to say to make me cave. He lives in a 1 bedroom council flat. I live in a small 3 bed house, and claim UC towards my rent. I work full time and have never claimed benefits until now. My rent is 875 and I don't get a penny from my ex. He now wants to claim for one child for child benefit so that he can get a 2 bedroom flat through the council. I would have no issue with this however I am now left with no savings and will lose over 350 in UC as I will only be able to claim for 1 child. This is my child's home and it upsets me that I will have to either move my kids into my parents house or move to a flat. I shoukd also point out that my dd does not get on with her dad and does not want to stay at his. My son is only 5 so loves his dad however even he says he wants to stay with mummy and not stay over at dads. Aibu?