Thanks - no room for a lodger, unless a tent in the garden is ok!

Thanks for the information all - will have a look at the site and see what's what.

Actually, even that is out of date. The wait time is now 13 weeks www.whitehallpages.net/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=159394

That information is outdated. DWP now help with interest payments only after a qualifying period www.insolvencyhelpline.co.uk/identify_problem/mortgage_arrears.php. I hope it helps

Could you take in a lodger to help with the bills? I understand this idea is gaining in popularity. I suppose it depends if you have any room.

sorry - I have just realised you have already reduced the payments. I am sorry you are in this awful situation.

Have you tried citizens' advice?

FYI - I have looked for full or part time jobs in

Sains
Tesco
John Lewis
M&S
Boots
Local Shops/companies to me

And NOTHING at present in my area.

I am on a wait list for interview for Boots Christmas staff.

No. Even if you are seriously ill and cannot work you will not get any help from the state until you have been ill for 6 months. You will not get any help with mortgage payments unless you have taken out specific insurance.

Some banks/building societies will let you take a mortgage holiday or reduce your payments, but you need to contact them straight away.

RE: big debate, I was just making it clear, that I don't want my personal situation picked over, just a simple answer to a simple question, to warn of some MN's who lurk on the boards and can't resist a nasty snipe or two.

RE: "Serioiusly, why would you?"

Because you've been made redundant with no pay and you are looking for another job and you have no income at all at present. And having worked for 23 years no stop and paid all taxes and NI. As opposed to being a lazy arse and doing fuck all year after year.

RE: payment protection

We swtiched our mortgage a year ago and found that hardly any lenders offered payment protection any more due to the ecomonic climate.

What's all the stuff about mortgage help in the papers then? Or am I hallucinating?

You don't get your mortgage paid. Seriously, why would you? Everyone would be doing it!

You could get a job in a shop or cleaning work with family friendly hours, your H could work, and if a job comes up for him you would give notice or carry on working and use childcare.

no the benefits agency will not pay your mortgage.
they pay rent if you rent, but not mortgages.
it's a bit unfair, but i suppose it's the risk you take.
does your mortgage not have payment protection insurance?

no they dont