Corona worry’s for my family

MissRobyn09

Hi

ive only just joined and this is my first post but I would appreciate any advice.

I am a single mum to two primary aged children and I’m currently working from home, 36 hours a week. it’s a struggle.

My children’s dad is currently furloughed, however, his girlfriend is a key worker and her children are going to school. My kids havnt seen their dad in 7 weeks (apart from through a window) and are desperate to see him, he is also desperate to see them.

im fighting with myself on what the best thing to do is, do I let them go to his for a few days and spend time with him? I’m trying to protect them but also selfishly myself, my BMI is high and I’m classed in an at risk group. But also all of our mental health is suffering as I havnt had a break. I also have a boyfriend who wants to move in and provide me with support but he’s still having to go to work.

I just want to do the right thing 😢

Comms69

I mean there's a specific exemption for this, so whilst i understand your reasoning - really they should be seeing him. 

I would hold off moving the boyfriend in, as this may be a stressful time to start what is often a stressful time anyway. If your kids dad is furloughed, i'd suggest he may be better placed to look after the kids, you can concentrate on work and get a break too?

suejb2

Don’t start to live with your boyfriend, that’s too  stressful. I found this , 

Advice for families on effective co-parenting and child arrangements

On 23 March, the government published full guidance on staying at home and away from others, which clarified that where parents do not live in the same household, children under 18 can be moved between their parents’ homes. On 24 March, the President of the Family Division, Sir Andrew McFarlane, provided additional advice on compliance with Family Court Child Arrangement Orders. 

Savvy_Sue

The only thing to give extra thought to here is the actual role played by the ex's g/f. I'm a keyworker, but my work does not bring me into contact with anyone more or less likely to have the virus, so my risks of bringing it home are minimal. 

If the g/f works in an area where she is more likely to come into contact with the virus, she might feel it is best NOT to have your children there. 

Fireflyaway

Kids are allowed to see both parents so you won't be breaking any rules. I think you are being very considerate and it's not selfish to want to protect yourself. Why not ask your kids dad what he thinks? If the idea really worried him or his girlfriend then i guess it's best to wait, but if he is ok with it im sure the kids would like a change of scenery and it will give you a little rest. Trying to work with 2 young kids about can't be easy. See what he says and decide together. I honestly think there is as much chance of catching the virus in a supermarket or train as there is from a relative. You can't protect yourself 100% and mental health and maintaining healthy relationships is important too.