How do you afford to be posted?

[OtterPockets]

Just found out we're off again in the new year. I'm shitting it.

I've only just come off of maternity leave, our savings are wiped out! I've said to DH I just don't see how we're going to manage to find another £1000 plus for DS's childcare up front, and fund me while I'm out of work, all within two months. I know I'm theory I won't need childcare while not working - but then where does the money come from when I do find a job that I can't afford to start?

Just wondering how others do it. I can't see the relocation allowance stretching to childcare fees somehow!

Hey,

Tough times. Can you put your disturbance allowance aside for the childcare. It should be nearly £1K even with no children.
Also, are you in MQs or do you rent at each posting?

I didn't realise DA was that much! Will certainly put aside as much as we can of that. I'm hoping to do our march out clean myself if I can ship DS off to my parents for a few days, so hopefully that'll save a bit.

We're in a married quarter, considering private renting though.

I've spent the even applying for a few remote jobs I can hopefully do at night to avoid more childcare so hopefully that'll pan out and top us up a bit.

Yep, I haven't heard that it's changed since we last moved. Excellent money for old rope!
I'm sure whoever gets your house next, will be so pleased that you cleaned it and didnt leave it to the A jokers.
If you can stay with another MQ, that will save you £££. No water, minimal rent.
Best of luck, both with move and the job apps.

Definitely use the disturbance. And depending on where you're posted there may be a nursery on camp. Some are subsidised for dependents. That might help!

Will definitely be using the disturbance allowance, genuinely didn't realise it was that much! A nursery on camp would be a real treat to be honest I could palm off all drop offs and pick ups on DH.

At least know I know I'm only saving for another potential period of unemployment, rather than everything.

And thank you both as soon as I know exactly where we're living, I'll job hunting properly.