Feel financially trapped, anyone else? I'm so miserable

[everyweekiwonder]

DS goes to school. I'm his carer.

I use the hours he's at school to sleep. So I can't work. I take medication that makes me very tired, but, the sleep deprivation isn't a side effect and it isn't going away - DS is medicated for sleep but only has 2 or 3 hours a night. Other times he needs 24/7 supervision

I feel very sad as I can't build up a pension pot or build up a salary

Does anyone have any suggestions?

H left us but does pay maintenance for DS.

DS's DLA pays for his swimming lessons that he loves, constant stuff I have to replace...

Oh I should also add that he gets respite hours but we've noticed that it isn't reliable so no weekend job etc even if I really wanted that - the care just isn't reliable

Remember to get credits for your state pension, are you claiming all you can?
maybe you can get a new med with less side effects?
seek like minded folk with same condition as son, sorry can’t be more help

@Nsky62 I automatically get credits for my state pension as I claim carer's allowance

I don’t imagine this is the suggestion you want, but there is boarding provision for children w special needs, although you have to fight for it. Would you consider him weekly boarding?

No, too young. He's very happy at home and loves his set up, home life and school routine. Going out with me. It wouldn't be in his best interests, which is what I'm always going to aim for no matter how hard life gets (unless he gets violent and he's older, in which case a very big consideration and likelihood if I can't keep myself safe)