Child board and guilt ....am I doing the right thing?

[WheresTheBear]

My Ds,17, started at army training college last year

After a couple of months he told me he hated it, and ultimately quite.

Believe me I wasn't happy about this, told him it was his decision to attend in the first place, and we all told him how hard it would be, but he didn't listen

He is now left with no college/education and, being a single parent, and work full time, him leaving and not being in education has meant I have lost what little benefit I was getting.

He has managed to get a part time job, earning around £150 a week.

I've asked for £30 a week bored, to help with the food shop.

He got paid his first wage yesterday (he gets paid fortnightly) I had to remind him of his board payment.

He paid it , but I feel so guilty.

I am doing the right thing aren't I?

I'm not usually in favour of people charging their children rent, but yours is a token amount that won't even cover his food and leaves him plenty. It might also sharpen his focus on finding a better/full time job. Can he go back to college?

Doesn't he legally have to be in education or training until he's 18? Would he consider an access course or similar?

Board rather than bored (though I expect you are bored of asking as well!) and no, YANBU.

My eldest give 1/3 as his contribution to the family finances, saves a third and spends a third.

He is hoping to go back to college in September.

Yes you are. It’s a very minimal amount but teaches him financial responsibility and also that his decisions have consequences

He looked at apprenticeships, but nothing local.

He tried this career advice place recommended by the college, but you have to be 18!?

TBF, he has tried all avenues, it was part of me agreeing he could leave the course