Hi I posted on here some time ago. And got some great advice, so I'm back asking again if anyone has any advice.
Nearly 2 years ago now my ex husband out of revenge overnight stopped me seeing my son. Our marriage had broken down, we had child arrangement in place seperated for some time, he claimed my partner had hurt me so had concerns, false allegations.
All because I had a new baby timing was as baby born he stopped contact.
By of us have parental responsibility so only way has been via court horrendously delayed by COVID etc. And appeals, cafcass stated mother (me) is no risk neither is partner, but ex husband and his solicitor appealed during hearing basically on a technicality safeguarding check had not come back, so I have been stuck in a contact centre once a week for 9 months.
Final hearing is in a couple of weeks.
So the recommendation is both parents shared care 50/50 my son wants this and was devastated has actually needed counseling as his new baby brother was born and he was stopped seeing him etc.
When we divorced I was lucky enough to be able to get a housing association flat, now this is my issue. I cannot afford private rental prices locally at all, I don't even pass affordability checks I have enquired already I have two boys here both under two, it has already been stated in recommendation my son is in senior school now. He needs his own bedroom due to one toddler and a baby in one room and me in the other.
When I get to the hearing will the court support me in moving home whether that be private renting or writing to housing association?
I have done as much as I can I work but don't earn enough and with childcare costs I don't pass affordability checks private renting and I feel deflated after being told there is no reason not to have 50/50 I will be prevented from doing so as lack of bedroom for my older son.
Any advice really appreciated. Many Thanks.
Hi,
I very much doubt court will help you with accommodation. I would suggest you not mention your problem with housing, as then the other side will play on that and try to convince court to not give 50/50. You could purchase a bunk bed in meantime. You could also see your local MP and tell them about your situation, and ask can they help you with getting council housing.
Sorry that you have been stuck with contact centres for 9 months. However the most important positives are:
1. You are not a risk to the children.
2. You son wants to spend time with you.
However, for school aged children, the court will also balance their wishes against their needs for stability and mental welfare in relation school. The court will progress contact to unsupervised but maybe not overnight if your accommodation isn’t appropriate for your son’s age.
One solution could be to give your son your bedroom and for you to sleep on a sofa bed. This will ensure that he has his own space for doing homework, hanging out or socialising with friends. You might be able to pick up a used sofa bed for free or little money.