Where to turn

[Greeneggsandham124]

When you’ve exhausted all options, where actually do you turn to? I haven’t got any money left, I’ve used food banks, but I’m now at the end of my tether, what good am I as a mother if I can’t even provide?
I actually don’t know what to do anymore, I don’t know the point of this post really I just need help and I know I can’t continue like this.

What's your situation op? Maybe if you explain a bit more someone might have some ideas.

Could you ask your employer for an advance for this month? Then see if there’s any more hours they can give you.

my partner is unwell , and unable to work, so it falls to me which is fine, but I just don’t earn enough to get through a whole month, even relying on food banks - I’m struggling to keep it together for our daughter. I’m struggling to be the strong one. It’s exhausting.

I used to work for a community service where you could just drop by and speak to a social worker who would be able to advise on options for you. Do you have anything like this near you?

That sounds really tough with the stress of your partner’s illness. Have you checked whether you can get any UC, carer’s allowance etc? If you have a child under 5 the health visitor might be able to signpost you to resources. Really hope there’s light at the end of the tunnel for you.

I was wondering about the family hubs? I know social services are very overloaded but it might be worth calling the duty desk and seeing if they can suggest any help.

I’m not sure to be honest - I will definitely look into this thank you

I have tried this it’s not an option :-/

Are you claiming benefits? Do you rent?

Yes we claim UC and rent but our rent is high

If rent is more than the LHA limit in UC have you approached the council for a Discretionary Housing Payment?

UC can sometimes give an advance depending on circumstances - maybe try them

Any community fridges in your area?

I have applied for one - they have said 10 days that’s from Friday.

I have looked but only seems t be food banks that you need a referral for, which I have exhausted.

I'm sorry your OH is too unwell to work, it really has become solely your burden hasn't it? Not knowing your circumstances, do you pay for childcare - would he be able to do that at home? Is he able to find any work he can do from home that might help? As well as struggling financially, it sounds as though it's coping on your own that's getting you down. I hope you pick up some tips off here, good luck x

Have you got the Olio app? There are huge amounts of free food on it in my area.

Are you getting a reduction in council tax due to your low income?

Broadband can be reduced, there's a social tariff for people on UC.

Water bills can be reduced if on UC.

You can apply for a discretionary assistance payment - in Wales you can have 3 payments in 12 months. England is different but is available there too.

Free school meals/school essentials grant.

Fuel voucher for gas/electric/oil.

What did your husband do before he was ill? There are grants for various employment/health problems that you can apply for.

OP do you have any debt that you have to meet repayments on? If so I would recommend you speak to Step Change, who can negotiate with your lenders and suspend all repayments, buying you some time to organise your finances. Good luck x

Yes it is really my burden, and it’s heavy. i am just not sure how to go on from here - it’s getting a bit too much.
I pay for childcare but am unable to claim back through Uc as he isn’t working - waiting for lcwra decision.

I have just applied for council tax reduction - and broadband we pay £30.
he was in insurance.

@Greeneggsandham124 have you spoken to Citizens Advice?

There are often charitable bodies either local or national that may help with grants etc for people in need. There's a whole adviser's reference book devoted to the subject!!

I actually haven’t perhaps that should be a job for today.

He was in insurance and didn't have income protection cover himself? That is surprising. However, it doesn't help you now. Any workplace compensation he can access?

No, no he didn’t.