Money worries

CHARDONNAY_3

Hoping to get some advice for my sister. She is in a very difficult situation, living with violent partner, disabled son and suffers with depression.

A few months ago she was being investigated for benefit fraud. We spoke to CAB and decided it was best to come clean. Her partner had moved in, him working ft, her on benefits, so for few months before finding new job she was claiming when she shouldnt have been. Luckily at investigation she was just fined and ordered to pay back benefits.

However our dad died 6 weeks ago and my sister hasnt been back to work since. Iv had a hard time too but only took a couple of weeks off work as I decided it would be best to keep busy.

My sister is now struggling financially - only gets ssp and cant afford to pay debts. Her partner works ft but on min wage.

I just want to scream at her for coming to me when I'm struggling to cope too, but she's my sister, so what can I do? People on here have been so helpful, if anyone could give any advice would be much appreciated.

Thanks

brightonman123

financially (and physically) may be better to leave b/f, and get on (abused mother = priority?) housing list, asap.

CHARDONNAY_3

I wish she would leave her partner - been begging her for years - but whatever we say goes over her head!

They already rent from council and ave council rents in area are only about £60 - £65 p/wk, so thats not a prob. But she now has council tax, gas and elec arrears (and a ludicrously high phone bill - don't even ask!)

From reading other posts, calling CCCS might be a good option. Don't think she will call herself, would I be able to get advice on her behalf? What are there operating hours as I work 9-5 Mon-Fri.?

Thanks

fatbelly

Hi

She's going to need to do this herself.

Not sure whether your sis and her partner are going to be able to deal with these debts as a couple.

For the CCCS to take someone on they require minimum payment of £5 per creditor per month - you sis may not be able to afford this on her own.

As the CAB were helpful last time, why not encourage her to go back to them? The strengths of the CAB are their ability to advise on multiple issues: relationship issues, housing, benefits (is she getting everything she is entitled to?) and debt for instance. Also their debt specialists have no minimum amounts.

On the downside (embarassed to say this) quality of service can be variable depending on your location.

CHARDONNAY_3

Thank you for the replies.

My sister has not yet discussed the situation with her partner. I have advised her to do this asap, however she is afraid he won't want any part in whatever CAB/CCCS recommend.

If she was to do a debt management plan (or worse case scenario, go bankrupt) Would she be able to do it in her name only? (They live together as partners but are not married.) I have been trying to research this on the net, but can't find an answer. Hopefully one of you guys can help???

Thanks.