AIBU to think it would be impossible to raise my kids alone without relying on benefits?

[ginandlimonade]

It's not a goady title, so apologies if it comes across that way.

I had a difficult childhood and things got worse in adolescence. Eventually I was put into foster care. I was desperate for love and stability and married young and got pregnant young. We now have three children.

I'm unhappy within my relationship now, but if I'm to be realistic with myself, how would I support three children if we split? Even with him paying maintenance the cost of funding two homes is not cheap.

I am looking to go back to college but even if I get some qualifications I won't earn enough to comfortably pay for me and three children. Am I missing a Trick?

I think you're overwhelming yourself trying to look at the big picture. Start smaller, what can you do today to get on tract to be able to reach your eventual goal.

What did you do for work before? What could you study to improve your earning potential? What are you good at, look st what jobs are in short supply (check immigration website for this, they post lists of in country shortages). See if there is something on the list that you can do, or can train to do.

I'm studying for a business mgmt degree with an H that works overseas for 8 weeks at a time (back for 2) while raising three DC, one an infant. I'm not working right now and am studying to become more employable. You can do it. You just have to start.

...and in the beginning if you have to rely on tax credits and what have you, then so be it. ThAt's what they're there for.