Okie dokie, before I get started here I must stress I would talk to CAB/Dole Office whatever but as me and my husband work full time, despite our best efforts that's not working out for us as they are only ever open at stupid times and they never pick up the phone (maybe snail mail).
I'm in a bit of a fix with being able to afford a home. Me and my husband have private rented for years but the issue is we have to leave in September as l/l is selling and doesn't want to renew our tenancy. At this point I'll be 8 months pregnant!
I've spoke to the council but all they do is drag their heels and never give me an answer as to how our housing application may progress (they know i'm pg and I've been on the list for 7 years).
I'm starting to understand that I probably won't be able to rely on the council as we'll probably end up in a druggy bedsit at best. So, step in private renting! Only issue being I can't afford the deposit and months rent up front. It's not that I want to sponge, it's just that I need to seriously repair my car to keep on working until I drop to pay for baby stuff (thanks for removing my £500 bit of hope Mr Cameron), husbands salary just about covers all household bills and when you consider I will have to stop working a large deposit is simply too much. I've done a budget and allowing for all the expense I reckon we will be short of covering it all. Only by about £300 or so.
Looking at tax credit and maternity pay etc we could private rent no problem! The only issue then going forward is that I will probably have to go back to work after 6 months as my maternity allowance will stop. I'll be honest - I'd rather stay at home until the baby is at least 1!
It's a big mess - all happening to a young couple who earn £40,000 a year between them and have done for many years. How messed up is this Country when you can't get a decent start on those earnings!