No one will let me rent since I don't meet affordability criteria, might be forced to live with ex partner again.
I broke up with my fiancé about two months ago. We lived together and I was financally dependent on him. He moved out immediately and I applied for benefits straight away.
I ask my letting agency to change me to a sole tenancy to help prove my UC housing costs, and they asked me to serve notice on the joint tenancy so they could switch me to a sole one.
My landlord took advantage of this, declined the sole tenancy and gave me less than 4 weeks to leave the property.
I couldn't find a flat in time because no agency will accept me, and I know it is because I'm unemployed and on benefits. I've been told I don't meet affordability criteria for even £550pcm (the lowest rent in my city). I've had applications denied and even had viewings cancelled on me. One flat I offered the deposit for picked someone else who offered deposit after me, three days later. The agency pathetically lied saying "first come first serve" when I literally was first to offer a deposit.
I have an excellent reference from my previous landlord, I can offer two guarantors and deposit plus two months upfront. But no one wants me.
I am now homeless and desperately trying to find something. I'm meant to return to university studies in this city in September, I need to live here.
I might just have to move back in with my ex partner. We would get a two bedroom property. But I'm terrified Universal Credit will cut me off, thinking we are actually a couple, and I will be trapped again.
I am extremely stressed. Any advice is appreciated.