I walked out with two kids. Please help, what's next

[Fullsteamahead]

It's been long time coming, very long time actually. Can't exactly say what and where went wrong, we just drifted apart, we constantly argue, for the last several years we have pretty much coexisted for the sake of children and to stay afloat financially. Ive been on the verge of walking out several times before but always chickened out at the last moment.

Anyway, we had yet another argument last night and I said to him that, perhaps, it'd be best if he looked for a place to stay for himself. He refused point blank and said if I wanted to end it then it's me who should move out. He then added that he would fight me for the custody over the kids. This was what ultimately tipped me over the edge. I headed upstairs, packed a couple of bags and left with kids and the dog. We are currently at a relatives' house but not sure how long we can stay here...

Now the details:
House I walked out of is privately rented (lease is in husband's name)
I don't currently work so no income
My bank account is overdrawn so no money either
I don't currently receive any benefits except for Child Benefit
I've been to citizens advice today and they said that sorting out housing is the priority. I've completed an online registration form for local housing association but it's not looking good at all, they currently have 4 properties listed in my area (only one of which is suitable) and 182 people already bidding for it!
Private rent is obviously out of question as I'm currently unemployed and have no income.

My head is spinning. Please help me work out what to do. I know we will be ok for a short while but I need to try and find solutions ASAP.

Thank you so much in advance

Can you go to the council housing department? They may be able to help you with temporary housing

You may have to look outside your area and look for properties that are suitable AND in lesser competition in order to 'win' the bidding processes.
I realise that this is unattractive - moving away from established ties and support networks / moving schools etc but necessary for housing purposes?
Make certain that the bidding process has your housing priorities set right! - stress that your understanding immanent threat of housing - get your relatives to write a letter explains clearly that you cannot stay past x date and get it to the housing authority asap!
Look at moving as a fresh start and new opportunity?
Good luck

*Under immenant threat of homelessness.

I agree, think about all possible areas you could live in. Are your family and friends mostly concentrated in the one area?

I'm not sure how it all works but surely by being homeless you are in a strong position above the others on the list?
Although I believe you would have to say you were made homeless and not made yourself homeless. I think they look differently on it? Not sure?

Anyway I'm surprised he let you and the kids go? What kind of man would allow you just to walk out with them? That to me speaks volumes.

Stay strong x

Depending in the property you're staying in you may be classed as homeless or highest banding for over crowding. In fact if your relative sends a letter telling you to leave you will be classed as homeless and the council will house you (in b and b to start with I imagine) xx

Thank you all so much for the responses. I called my local council's emergency housing dept today and was given an appt to see an advisor, the trouble is it's not till Fri 3rd Aug!!!
It definitely came across like they wouldn't necessarily treat this as an emergency case (since there was no violence or physical threat to me or children). The lady did, however, say that despite the fact that the current tenancy is in OH's sole name, since we are married I have a legal right to stay in the property.
I feel somewhat disheartened, looks like it'll be a very long process. I need to go back to the house as I can't burden the relatives for much longer and then take it from there.