Change from part-time permanent to full-time fixed term without long commute??

[skewputt]

Job at the moment is part time 2-3 days a week with a permanent contract but a long commute (70 miles round trip). A job has come up a short walk away but is a 2 year contract and full time. My youngest has just started school so full time would be manageable (but stressful as DH also commutes even further so I'm responsible for all dropping off/ picking up etc!).

Jobs don't come up often in my field so chances are I would stay unemployed for a while at the end of the 2 years and have to get by on DH's salary which would be extremely tight. Money in this new job is a bit less than current job salary-wise although I'd take home more obv. as full-time. Would save money on travel but get less in tax credit so swings and roundabouts! Am in a bit of a turmoil - any advice/ opinions welcome!!

Is it a definate fixed term, or is there a possibility of it being extended? Personally I wouldn't be able to survive on just dh's salary, but if you would be able to if no other work found then it may be worth it? I'd probably apply, gives you longer to decide what to do if they offer you the job. How much difference month by month would it be financially, taking into account the tax credits vs fuel/more hours? Could you put some or all of this into a savings account to fall back on once the fixed term finishes? Xxx