Hi, first time I have used this site. Looking for advice for a friend who has been told by council that she will only receive HB/CTB for 26 weeks from the date she separated from her husband i.e. May 2013. She is aged 60 and receives ESA- no other income or capital. She jointly owns her former marital home which is occupied by her husband. Their relationship has broken down due to domestic violence and no reconciliation likely. She has obtained housing association flat and wishes to accept tenancy but is unable to pay rent if HB ceased in Nov 2013 (26 weeks after separation). House is worth £80,000 and no outstanding mortgage. husband still in property- he is in poor health and aged 67. Does not wish to try to sell property and unlikely due to husbands age and health. I looked at HB regs and it looks to me that what the council are telling her is correct? Any advice on whether there is anything else she could do? Thanks in anticipation.