To move out or stay after divorce (DV)

[BubblegumBubblegum]

Seeking some advice on what to do about housing once I am separated from DH.

We currently have a council house in both of our names. I am looking at moving out and starting afresh yet would I be a fool to let go of my council house?

Option one -
Move out and rent privately nearby. I have seen a lovely little house in a nearby village but I will be honest - privately renting is out of my budget especially when I’ll have other costs related to the divorce. I have been looking at loans for people with bad credit but that is going down a dodgy path.

Option two -
I am leaving due to DV/EA. Women’s aid have suggested that I contact my housing association and declare myself homeless due to DV. The risk is that I have no idea where I would end up and my oldest is in comp close to our house. He has a great social life in the area and I don’t drive.
I have looked into school transport or him using public transport.

Option 3 - stay in the house and DH moves out. I feel like I would have more control if I moved out. I know he wouldn’t give the house up without a fight and would use it as a weapon saying I threw him out/took his home away etc. I do like the idea of starting afresh somewhere new but this also comes with added costs such as furnishing the house/flooring/white goods.

What happens to all furniture and white goods during a divorce if one partner stays in the house?

Has anyone got any advice please? 🙏

Listen to women’s aid! It’s scary but they
know what they are talking about. Sending you a hug

Thank you 🥰I think I know deep down that I have to follow their advice of declaring myself homeless. It’s a frightening thought with 2 children and not knowing what I will be offered. Looking at privately renting only because it would be quicker but realistically there’s private rent in my area is double my council house rent.

Get some legal advice if you have been subject to dv you may be able to get an order requiring him to leave.

@BubblegumBubblegum don’t forget that you will be eligible for housing benefits to help. Also I know my local women’s aid do have some temporary accommodation available and offer help re benefits etc. You can do this, you’ve been strong enough to make the decision to divorce, don’t be afraid to ask for help with the rest

Option 4 if you have evidence of the dv apply for an occupation order so he has to go and you can stay put.

Option 4 is well worth looking into, I did this. Women's aid will be able to arrange a free consultation with a solicitor who can advise if it's a viable option for you.

I don't know the age of your son but when I was looking to leave I was told they wouldn't house my 16 year old in any sort of refuge and if I wanted to stay in my local area I had to leave him with ex as no temporary accommodation available.
Worth asking the local council what support is available prior to making any declaration officially.
I ender up private renting because no way was I leaving him.
Good luck with whatever option you decide