How to prepare for separation while still living together

[StuffyBuffy]

Agreed that it’s time to separate with husband of 20 years. We have just moved to a new house. Totally unsure what to do and how to prepare.

Neither one of us can move out as the other one can’t manage school picks and drops and working full time on their own, our home is semi rural. If we stay in the same house how is this done? Separate rooms beds food? What should I start doing to prepare for a separation in terms of finances? Thanks for your help!

Start separating finances. Probably best to continue to share a 'house account' for bills, but otherwise separate money. Save like mad for all the fees and deposit that will be required when you eventually move. If you have debts, sort them now, fairly.

Do you each have transport?

You'll need to co-ordinate timetables for school runs, and cooking meals, but you should spend time apart, try to build up your support networks etc. It will make it easier not to annoy each other too.

Separate rooms, separate laundry, but your children have to live through your "separated in the same house' phase so no reason why you can't share meals and food shopping. Ideally move calmly to being house mates.

Thank you @Meadowfinch much appreciated

do you know how to initiate or file for divorce, do we have to be ‘separated’ for a certain amount of time?

You can file online. You don’t have to be separated before as you’ll go into a 20 week
oolong off period ( assuming you’re England /wales)

theres separate but related aspects

Child arrangements ( if there are minor children, especially if under 12)
financials
divorce

it is usually unwise to divorce unyil
you’ve finalised the above items. Getting divorced does not sever financial ties