How do you cope financially as a lone parent.

[TwoCrazyKids]

I am on the verge of splitting with dp. I have two children, and I am a full time student. I don't know how I will cope but I don't know how much more I can take of this relationship :(

tax credits
I work part time
I sell haberdashery via ebay and my own little concession in a shop
I teach in the evenings from home
Coupon clipping!

It will be okay, give Gingerbread a call to see what you're entitled to if you split and have the kids with you.

You need a tax credit quote pronto. Also you are entitled to housing benefit if you study full time. You may also qualify for a hardship grant from the uni.

I work four days a week and also qualify for tax credits and working tax credits.
I budget really carefully, meal plan etc. I've reduced my car costs by buying a smaller car and work as many overtime shifts as I can.
It's not easy but it's a hell of a lot easier than living with a abusive arsehole who used to 'allow' me to have a little portion of my wages if he decided I deserved them

Yes contact your uni. Often these things are first come, first served so get in now for next years fund.

Students don't pay Council tax either I think? Other benefits depend how old your dc are.

And yes coupons, buying reduced / sale / charity shop / local FB selling pages. It helps if you have storage space to put stuff away when you see it for a good price eg winter pjs in the sale for next size up or board games they will like in a year or two. Freeze food so you don't think Fuck it and get a takeaway when you are exhausted.