Divorce/no income

[Beyondthesmile]

I’ve not had a job since I’ve had my oldest. My husband always said he wanted me to be a stay at home mum, and has always supported us. I always wanted a job, therefore it’s where we always butted heads. Prior to my husband I was independent. I have no income. I don’t know where to start, how to start. He has been emotionally abusive for a long time and I’ve always fallen for it. I’ve beaten myself down, gained weight, lost life motivation. We live in a housing association house. I can’t afford the rent if he leaves? Will I be intentionally homeless? I also have no family in this country, and no friends. I have always truly been alone and got on with it. What do I do? Has anyone else been in a similar situation?

You need to seek financial remedy via the divorce process
How old are your children ? You need to look for work
Do you gave joint assets/savings/pensions etc ?
Seek child maintenance too

I was in a similar situation earlier this year. The most important thing is to free yourself from an emotionally abusive relationship for your own sanity and well being. I applied for Universal Credit immediately and kept my rent officer updated. You will have to wait 5 weeks for your first payment but you can get an advance. I did this and also managed to get free school meals. It is hard but doable.

Getting rid of my abuser is the best thing I ever did.

Sorry you are going through this OP and so much of your post rings true - much of this was me 10 years ago. Great advice from other posters, seek a remedy through the divorce, get benefits. Gingerbread- a charity for single parents can advise. And yes, it will be so so so much better for you and the kids without him. Good luck 💐

Yep - use benefits to tide you over until you can get into work.