At last a message board where people talk normally...
I am going to be a lone parent in December. It was planned this way.
I looked up this Entitlment Calculator on the internet and despite doing it twice, it would appear that when i go back to work part time 3 days a week, i'll actually be better off than I am now. Does that sound right to anyone?! I work 4 days a week currently and spend other weekday at college.
Also due to maternity pay being so dire - what a disappointment considering i've worked from aged 16 to 35 (now), so nearly 20 years of tax contributions for very little in return! So I'm going to ask my mum if i can live with her for 6 months of my maternity leave. This is so I can rent my flat out and not worry about mortgage for 6 months, plus she'll hopefully pass on her mothering wisdom and it will bond us.
Has anybody out there tried living with their mum too in this way? My mum has a big enough space for me, so won't be under her feet. I'm also a very active person so will be able to cook some evening meals etc and do a bit of cleaning for my mum in return for not paying rent.
This is if she says yes, haven't asked her yet! Eeeek. Feel apprehensive about it though becuase if she says no, i just dont' know how i will manage as because I own my own home i won't get any help with the mortgage. So lovely to be punished for trying to get on in life!
Any messages greatfull received and look forward to chatting.