To be sick of being broke and worrying about the future.

[Donthugmeimscared]

Just that really. I'm a single mum of three (yes I know shouldn't of had them if I can't afford them). I work ft but not for great money so get tax credits. My wages cover rent and bills so we live on 120 a week tax credits and I'm struggling. I swear every week the children grow out of something or need something for school. I can't afford anything else to the point I can't even afford new work clothes. It's just so depressing. I have no savings and I don't know I'm just feeling fed up and worried.

I think what set this off was having to ask my ex for help with school shoes and then getting an ear bashing from his mum about "doesn't he give you enough?"

I guess I just want to know if this gets easier? I'm so sick of living like this

He NEEDS to be paying regular Child Maintenance. And don't engage with him otherwise; he can rant to himself.

I don't understand, why is he not paying child maintenance? 😱

He does but messes the dates around constantly. He also messes everything around including seeing the dc. He doesn't see that he is responsible for them too. Probably not helped by his "I was a single mum and never asked anyone for help" mum

Block his Mother if she contacted you on social media. It's not her place to discuss money.

Are you sure you're getting the right amount of tax credits?

Well his “ I was a single Mum” Mum didn’t do a very good job of bringing him up did she if those are his values. But you do need to think of this a a business transaction OP. He owes you money your kids are entitled to. It’s not about “ asking” and avoiding him “ going on about it” . You both as parents have a duty to provide for your children regardless of your relationship. Get in touch with CM now and don’t rest until he pays his way.

I agree...your ex needs to pull his weight financially. They are his kids and the money is for things they need, so don't accept his bullshit!! I am very angry on your behalf. You're working damn hard to try and give your children what they need and keep everything going and he gets to mess about with dates and generally be a prize twat. I don't think so!

Keep pushing on OP, you’re doing a great job even if you sometimes doubt yourself. Thank goodness for single mums cos there are some bloody useless fathers around who wouldn’t handle half the responsibility we do if they had to do it alone

I don't understand still. Are you going through the Csa? Does he work?

He pays it directly to me. I was only moaning about being broke and would rather not go into all the crap about him. He still has some messed up view we are still a couple so I tend to keep my distance as much as possible. I'm sure things will get better one day so will leave it there. Thanks every one for making me feel a bit less alone and I hope every one else who's struggling lives get easier as well.

Op, i know you don't want to hear it, but you need to formalise this, for your sake and the kids. It's not ok to let him away with not paying for them.

Your crap life is directly connected to not having it properly and formally sorted with ex. You need to either do it, or get back together if that is why you are umming and ahhing about. You sound to be living in limbo.