Bit of background, neighbour moved in four years ago we say hi in passing but never been in each other's houses. She takes the odd parcel in for me.
Her boyfriend recently passed away and i said she could come and chat anytime she felt down.
She argued with parents some years ago so isn't in contact with them, her boyfriend was the only person she bothered with apart from one other friend.
Anyway she started borrowing money a few months ago, nothing big only £10 and she was prompt paying back so I didn't mind lending it.
Three weeks ago she came to borrow £10 and said she'd give it back Monday. Monday came and no sign of her, same the following Monday and so on until yesterday when she knocked the door and asked to borrow £10. No mention of the other money so I said I didn't have any money.
I'm now feeling guilty because while I was telling the truth that I didn't have any money I could have popped to the cash point and drew some out.
The reason I'm feeling guilty is she doesn't work because of her nerves and she's only one friend to turn to.
On the other hand I'm a single parent/widow with a 16 year old dd to bring up. She's going into sixth form in September and I'm struggling to cope myself.
I work in a school through the day I do everything from breakfast club, one to one support work, and lunchtime supervisor.
Sorry this is so long but felt the need to explain.