Divorce & housing

[Danni79]

Hi, after months of trying to make it work my husband and i have decided to part :-( we have two very young children and we live together at my parents but when we split I will have to move out with the kids because i will not be able to afford housekeeping etc plus they are not at all happy about our decision. My question is what the hell do i do now?? i have never claimed benefits i've only ever claimed jobseekers for a few months after being made redundant - can i privately rent and claim housing benefit?? or do i have to get and wait on the housing register (which is very full here) but what in the mean time? Please help me i have no clue how all this works!! thanks x

[k8bailey]

I don't know if this will help but, I've been told that the citizens advice bureau are really good at helping people sort out what they're entitled to and claim benefits.

[trish432]

If you manage to get a private rent, you can certainly claim housing benefit, although you may have to find the deposit yourself, usually about a month`s rent,and reclaimable if you leave the property in the same state as when you move in.
You would probably get the full rent, as long as you don`t go over the top with the size of house etc. Which in your case would mean two bedrooms, as small children can share a room.
In some towns you can even get help with the deposit.
I agree with k8bailey, a good idea to see someone at citizens advice, if they can`t help they will put you in touch with someone who can.
They will also advise about other benefits that you can claim.

[tamborine]

Ask for eviction in writing.....take note to Housing office at Council & stay till you & kids are housed.

[Suetheramble]

My friemd owns a nice flat that she rents to th ecouncil who rent out to DSS. No deposit is given just th ecouncils assurance the flat will be made good when they leave. Dont know if all councils offer the same deal.

[Danni79]

This is very helpful its all really difficult i feel so usless and out of my depth, thanks everyone :-( x x

[Buenchico]

If you rent privately you'll be probably entitled to claim Local Housing Allowance (which replaces the former Housing Benefit for new claimants).

See here for further information:
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/MoneyTaxAndBenefit s/BenefitsTaxCreditsAndOtherSupport/On_a_low_i ncome/DG_10018928

Chris

[lil75]

I agree with tamborine, having been ina similar situation, I got my parents to write me a letter saying they didnt want me there anymore, took it to the local housing office and it went on from there, dont worry about it, they will try and help you! x