I finally have a light at the end of the tunnel. It has taken me since 10:30 this morning to actually get excited about it, I was so stunned at how blooming great the offer from the council is.
I was in a complicated situation as I owed them money which I had began appealing when I was made homeless the first time (recharge fees for an old property, which were ridiculously high considering how well I cleaned it). Instead of being sensible and sorting it out, I ran away to live with my now ex, who told me it would be the best thing to do. I realise now I was being influenced by him into making poor decisions when my mental health was not good, I should have reported myself to my psychiatrist, and the council as homeless with two children, but instead I was stupid and ended up leaving my children with their father and running away.
I realised I was being abused in November last year when my stepdad died and he was trying to 'gaslight' me into believing that I'd said I hated him and would be glad when he was gone, I was absolutely horrified when I realised what he was and all the things he had done to me that weren't right.
I ran away just after Christmas, have been staying with various people since. I've felt like a burden and it's been such a nightmare, harassment from my ex, moving areas to feel safe, realising the extent of how much he had manipulated me using my disability and mental health to do so. I was really quite depressed.
Now, I think I might be able to relax for the first time as they have taken my homelessness application and agreed it was through no fault of my own due to fleeing DV, they had recognised that private sector renting is not sensible as my disabilities make finding the appropriate place highly improbable. The have put me into Band A category with highest bidding priority for six weeks, and will extend it if I don't get housed in that period. They've reduced the money I owe them by half, and loaned me the rest to be paid back at a low rate. They have accepted my assessment from OT and social worker to house me in level access ground floor accommodation, with storage for a mobility scooter, and either a level access shower or wet room. And they will do all the bidding for me, which saves me a great deal of stress and time. I walked out a bit stunned. I was expecting a no, or at the best help to get private rented housing. To know that I will finally be in a suitable home, and be able to sort out care packages and regain my independence again after the worst year of my life. My brain doesn't know whether to be happy or cry.
I just wanted to say that you can get free from an abusive relationship, I've had hurdles and hurdles due to my circumstances, but finally I can relax and know it shouldn't be too long before I am settled and can begin rebuilding my life. I have to own up to lots of mistakes and rebuild bridges, but I can do that now independently without anyone telling me what to do.