I finally left my controlling ex – but now I’m broke and depressed

DEAR DEIDRE: AFTER finally leaving my controlling husband last year, I’m destitute, homeless and depressed.

I am 48 and walked out on my husband, who’s 50, taking our two sons, aged 15 and 13, with me.

We were well off, with various properties and a successful business.

My team and I are working safely from home but we are here to help you as always.

Every problem gets a personal reply, usually within 24 hours weekdays.

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But he has withheld all our money and I can’t get legal aid to fight for what I’m entitled to.

We have ended up sleeping in my car and in B&Bs as I can’t afford to get a place.

I can’t get credit and am relying on a charity to survive.

I’ve now managed to get a job in a coffee shop but we have barely enough money to eat.

I don’t want to leave my sons alone but am so desperate it feels like my only option is to send them back to live with their dad and end my life.

DEIDRE SAYS: You have done so well to get away from your controlling husband.

He has no right to cut you off without a penny and has an obligation to provide for his children.

Contact the Family Law National advice line (020 7251 6577), which can offer advice on all your issues.

And your local Citizen’s Advice centre (citizensadvice. org.uk) should be able to help with any benefits you can claim.

If things do start to feel overwhelming, call Supportline (support line.org.uk, 01708 765 200) for emotional help.

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