Parent problems

sheramber

Are your parents self employed?

atush

If your brother employs them in some sort of firm, with 3 employees he should be paying into a pension for them.

They need to speak to debt charities, and perhaps move out so they can qualify for HB and get on a council housing list. Staying in your brothers house is blocking this.

It sounds like they sold their home due to debt and where then made homeless? That is when they should have gotten help.

Good luck and let us know what happens.

DeadTomorrow

Thanks for all of the advice everyone - that's given me a few avenues to explore with them. Though it's tricky as they aren't exactly helping us to help them... they don't want to move into rented accommodation even though that is the most sensible option financially (and for my brother). At least for now.

Dox

DeadTomorrow wrote: »

Though it's tricky as they aren't exactly helping us to help them... they don't want to move into rented accommodation even though that is the most sensible option financially (and for my brother). At least for now.

That sounds like parents! Maybe it's time they woke up to the fact that their previous actions have left them in a position where they don't have the luxury of endless choice - and neither does your brother.

It's a really tough call, but the sooner you/your brother makes a determined effort to tackle it, the better the chances of an outcome you can all live with. It is only going to get harder as your parents get older and even less flexible about what they think they're willing to do.

luvchocolate

Have a look at housing associations for over 55's , its a secure tenancy and cheaper than private rents.
Also agree you need to sit down and hopefully get them to open up to you.

atush

they don't want to move into rented accommodation even though that is the most sensible option financially (and for my brother). At least for now.

You may have to point out to them this is selfish as it isnt your brothers fault they got into debt and lost their own house.

The over 55s housing association idea is a good one.

crv1963

DeadTomorrow wrote: »

Thanks for all of the advice everyone - that's given me a few avenues to explore with them. Though it's tricky as they aren't exactly helping us to help them... they don't want to move into rented accommodation even though that is the most sensible option financially (and for my brother). At least for now.

A few thoughts-


Can you and your brother sit them down and say you want an honest discussion to see how to best help them? If so suggest-


1) That they can't keep the current work rate up as it is/ will end up ruining if not their health then your brothers health.
2) They have to be honest with someone about their debt(s) and seek an arrangement/ plan to sort this out. If not with their children then with a debt charity such as Stepchange.
3) Your brother cannot have his life ruled by their needs, helping them and feeling unable to follow his goals are no longer sustainable and that he is unable to afford to house them and follow his path and that you all need to find a solution together that may include moving to another house.
4) If nothing changes then eventually resentment will start.


It may be that they are ashamed of where they've ended up in this situation so feel embarrassed and fearful so it will need cool heads.


It may be useful for your brother (with your support) to see someone like the CAB to discuss the situation and get a picture of housing options locally, ideas for approaching your parents and ideas for making a structured plan for debt management if your parents refuse to disclose/ approach you or another party.