I know it’s wrong to leave someone like this but..

[HowcouldIdothis]

The relationship between me and my partner of 20 years is so bad that we currently haven’t talked for over a week. He is hurt I’m done and just want out. The issue is we have 4 children who are absolutely aware of the issues.
Partner does not want to consider separation as apparently it damages the kids more than this 😵‍💫 (or that he can’t deal with the prospect of a broken family)
I have no family support or the financial means to just be able to leave.
I feel like doing what i never wanted to. Leave without the kids and travel to my mother and not come back until he agrees to consider separation.
I know it’s wrong to abandon my kids but i do not see any other way out.

Is there emotional abuse going on or has there been a series of arguments from one or both sides - any threats of harm to you? Do you need to leave to keep yourself safe or is it affecting your mental health?

@HowcouldIdothis
This. In bucket loads.

I work with children whose parents have abandoned them. The mess it leaves, emotionally and physically, the scars, its forever.

You need to be strong for them and start making changes so you can continue to be around for them and co parent.

Ironic how your partner doesnt want a separation or a broken family (HATE HATE HATE THAT TERM) but the life you are living now and the option of abandonment are more harmful than a proper separation and amicable co-parenting

What are the issues in the relationship and what have you both done to try and resolve them? You need to give more information so you can get helpful advice.
Leaving your children should be the very last resort.

I think people are missing the point! The OP isn't expecting him to give up work to look after the kids, she is expecting him to see that if he wants her cooperation with co parenting, he needs to give some cooperation himself, by agreeing to an amicable split!