This newly single parent is confused by the benefit system. Help please!

[catchingzzzeds]

My husband and I separated in October and he has been supporting me and my 2 children in the family home (mortgaged) since then. We agreed he would do this until our youngest started school in September to cause as little disruption as possible for the DC.

We've had an argument this week and he is now saying he can't afford to continue and I need to get a job ASAP. My question is do I want a job with more or less than 16 hours a week? Both children are obviously unsettled due to the change, my eldest in particular is very anxious. I'm eager to continue to be around for them as much as possible. DC are 9 and 3.

More than 16 hours and you should qualify for tax credits. You probably won't get help straight away with your mortgage but it's possible to get interest only paid I think after a certain amount of time.

You can also get up to 80% of your childcare paid depending on your salary.

Get legal advice. You need a solicitor to organise the divorce and the financial settlement. Your benefit entitlement will be affected by the assets you own, and it won't be clear what they are until you have sorted the divorce and financial settlement.

If you're unsure about how to find a solicitor, you could ask your local CAB for a list. Some solicitors might provide a free 30 minute consultation. Some might allow flexible payment plans if money is an issue.

CAB can also advise you about your entitlement to benefits and/or tax credits.

Lastly, you could call the Right of Women free legal helpline: rightsofwomen.org.uk/get-advice/

Thank you both very much for the advice. CAB were closed today but I'll call them on Monday as a first port of call.
I've made some enquiries regarding work so fingers crossed something will come up there.
I can't afford to see a solicitor but it's a good idea to see if I can get s free half hour, my dad will come with me.
Life feels pretty scary but I'm sure I'll cme out the other side.