Couple Separating - What is wife entitled to?

If a couple separate where the husband was the only one earning, what if anything is the wife entitled to claim under social welfare?

Assume that due to the ages of the kids the wife is not available to look for a full time employment and that the husband does not earn sufficient income to cover the cost of running 2 homes (the family home and a his new residence).

thanks

Re: Couple Seperating - What is wife entitled to?

The husband is liable to maintain his family, so can be pursued for Maintenance.

The wife may be eligible for One Parent Family Payment, but cannot apply until 3 months after the separation.

Other assistance, such as Mortgage Interest Supplement will depend on how the family home is divided - who is liable for the mortgage.

thanks,

if the husband does pay maintenance, is the wife entitled to any One Parent Family Payment?

She may be, it will depend on the amount of maintenance being paid and any other income or savings she may have.