Hello,
My husband and I will have been married for 1 year in June.
Unfortunately things have not gone to plan and it looks like we are going to separate.
We have a 9 month old child who will be staying with me after the separation.
I am currently on maternity leave but due to go back to work 24 hours a week in July and will be paying for my child to go to nursery until September (when the free childcare eligibility kicks in)
I'm wondering (if any) what financial support I will be eligible for should we separate while I am on maternity leave or once I have started back at work part time.
Currently we live together in rented accommodation however I am unsure of if I will get benefits to help with the rent should my husband be the one who leaves the property during the separation.
Or, while technically still married, am I able to register for council housing even on maternity leave? or does the separation have to be legal before I am eligible for any benefits/council assistance at all?
Husband has agreed to childmaintenance/payments but although generous, will still not be enough to cover all of the rent and outgoings which he currently pays.
Anyone who has been in a similar situation who can share some insight would be really helpful.
Thanks