Relationship split - what now?

[user1469485133]

Hello there,
I'm really concerned about my sister and really don't know how to help. I was hoping I could get some direction from someone here

Her partner is still obligated to support his child. Benefits are now all Universal Credit. She will be expected to demonstrate she has been searching for a FT job and use childcare (UC provides assistance with childcare) so the 'I can only work school hours won't be enough). There is also a 5-week minimum wait for UC to be paid out. Her best bet is to find a real job before leaving him because she'll be expected to work FT to support herself and her child just as he is these days.

Can she move in with your parents while looking for a job and accommodation?

Thank you for your replies. She does actually want to work full time, she's been consistently looking for jobs but because she is the one who takes their child to school and picks them up, that's where the limited hours come in. Childcare is an option but it's costly and I can't see how she will afford this. I'm really worried. I have no doubt her partner will financially support his daughter. I can help her out if there is a 5 week wait for UC, that won't be a problem - thank you for all that information, it's very valuable.
The option to move in with our parents isn't really there. She could move in with me very temporarily, although we have very limited space.

Your sister will be entitled to help towards her childcare costs under UC, won’t she? If she looks at the turn to us benefit calculator she should be able to work out what she can expect, benefits wise.

No idea, thanks Lottie - I'll have a look at the Turn to Us. Thank you

If the childcare is Ofsted registered ie after school club or childminder you can get money back I think 80%on UC

Thanks NIghtchat, I'll look into that