Need advice for getting my ducks in a row

[Losthetrust]

Even though DP and I are working on our relationship, it's undecided whether I will stay. I think I'm going to see how things go, especially after Christmas. I love him, but it's just a question of whether there's too many issues that can't be fixed.

Anyway, I'm thinking about what my plans would be if I decide to leave. We have a DD (under 1). DP owns the home and works full time. I work part time with no option to extend hours. I'm looking for some work to do from home at the moment to boost my income. I know I'd be entitled to some help, but it's the initial money I would need to find a place suitable to rent which could be challenging. My friend said I could see if I could get a council house but I'm not sure how long that would take etc. Any advice for navigating this (if it comes to it) ?

Also I'm not looking for advice on whether I should stay or not, that's a decision only I can make.

Having done it, it really is about chipping away at getting enough out aside to pay for a deposit to get moved out and the basics of what you need.

Our home was jointly owned but I moved out prior to selling so didn't have any of the equity at the point of leaving the home. I just put some away each month until I had enough to go. I was able to take some things with me when I left as half was mine but I still had to buy loads to get set up.

It was all worth it - I'm now fully settled in a lovely new home with my husband and 2 children so it was definitely the right thing to do - ut just takes time and planning to make it happen.

Save up to pay a deposit and buy essential furniture. As soon as you leave, get your application in for UC and CMS.

Personally, I would concentrate on getting out and a new set up for now rather than messing with work hours because what you can work might end up changing when you have left and have a new normal.

Does your wage and child benefit go into your own account?
Have you thought about how much he would want the child, and so how much he’d have to pay you? Do you think he’d want 50:50?
Start saving Tesco/Sainsburys/Boots point sup.

Great advice! It will just take me a while to save up, hence why I might just try to make some extra money from home when I can. I just want a little emergency nest should I need it. Did you rent privately?

Yes it does! As he works week nights, I imagine he'd want her a few hours in the week and at weekends.

@Losthetrust yes. I rented the tiniest little cottage you could imagine first because I had no idea how much I would actually get on UC - and it was big enough for what we (me and DS) needed. It was my first little sanctuary and we loved it.

You could possibly have to go into temporary accommodation as council houses are so hard to get.

Yeah the thought terrifies me! So much uncertainty