Bit of a Crisis - Advice Gratefully Received

LittleMonkey16

Hi everyone

I hope I'm posting this is the right place. I'm really just looking for some indicators about *where* I need to go to get some help.

My partner and I currently live together but the relationship has now broken down. I've been self-employed since taking voluntary redundancy from my last job a year ago (I have a mental illness and had a breakdown - unfortunately they weren't very supportive and taking VS seemed like a good idea at the time). The self-employment isn't really working out for me (I'm definitely not earning enough to live on), so I've started really plugging away at looking for a job so that I can support myself properly.

However, I can't remain living here in this situation. I need to find a job and seek out my own accommodation, but I have no idea who to speak to. I have applied for loads of jobs from this address, so moving away may mean losing contact with recruiters - not great in the event of someone getting back to me with an offer of interview.

What should my first step be? I thought maybe I should go to CAB for some initial advice (it's CAS here in Scotland, but the services they provide are mostly mirrored). But then housing is a Council matter - so perhaps I need to get access to someone there? I'm not asking for an easy ride - I know this is going to be very hard. If I knew step one then I'm sure I could sort myself out.

Where would be the first place you would go if you were me? I have no family or friends anywhere near, so I don't have many options in that regard.

meritaten

The post office will redirect post for you - just fill out the form you can get at the local post office. otherwise you can contact other firms and ask them to update the address, Telephone number and your email addy should still be the same.
I think you need to speak to a housing and benefit advisor - CAB should have someone or Shelter - if they operate in Scotland.

LittleMonkey16

That's brilliant, thanks - I'll make tracks to CAB first thing tomorrow.

I'm not sure I'll be able to afford a redirect on the mail, but you're right about the email/phone number - I hadn't thought of that.

Thank you.

meritaten

actually, contacting the firms again could be a good thing - it will show them you are still keen enough on the job to update them!

Good luck!

LittleMonkey16

Thanks - think I might need it!