Page 1 | Page 2 | Page 3 | Page 4 | Page 5

This section gives basic information about the financial support you may get if you leave a violent partner.

You may be worried about how you will manage for money if you are on your own. Any relationship breakdown can cause money difficulties. However, domestic abuse often involves keeping women short of money and controlling what they spend it on. Many women find that they have more control over their money when they are on their own.

There is help available, in emergencies and in the longer term, and this leaflet gives an idea of what you can claim. However, this is complex and it is best if you speak to an adviser, for example from the Citizen’s Advice Bureau (CAB) or the East Lothian Council Welfare Rights Team. They can tell you about any legal requirement on your partner or ex-partner to support you or any children and what to do about any joint assets such as savings or any debts. They can help with budgeting and managing your money. They can tell you about any reductions you might get, for example for council tax.

If you are not a UK/EEC citizen you may not be able to claim the same benefits. You can get more information on this from CAB or the Welfare Rights Team.

Details for CAB and the Welfare Rights Team.

Income Support
Income support is means tested on your income. It is usually claimed by people aged 16-59 who have children or other caring responsibilities or who are too sick to work. If you are a lone parent, then Income Support would be paid. You apply for this at Jobcentre Plus.

Next Page | Previous Page