I'm looking for some advice and would really appreciate it if anyone could help please.
I was made redundant last year and decided to go freelancing. So far, it's working out well, but I am struggling a little financially.
My daughter turns 18 at the end of this month. She left college in June, started a new job which we was thrilled about. Unfortunately they have had to let a few go, so she is now out of work. I'm told that she can not claim benefits until she turns 18 and so I am supporting her. Her job was only part time and I am happy to continue supporting until she is financially able to do it on her own.
I'm not sure at this stage if there is any help I can get from the government with this. Her father stopped paying maintenance a fews years back. The child benefit has stopped now that she has finished education. I do not get income support because of my work situation, and it looks as though when she turns 18 she will not be able to claim housing benefit whilst living with a parent.
My daughter doesn't want to leave the family home and I don't want her out there struggling until she is ready. It seems ridiculous that she can leave and claim rent elsewhere but not whilst living with a parent. Does this mean that neither myself or my daughter get any financial help at all whilst she is unemployed and at home?
Is there anyone there in a similar situation who could give advice please?
Sorry it's a bit long :-)