Esa or Carers?

I don't know if anyone can help?
My hubby walked out a few days ago - we are both registered disabled and getting DLA and he was claiming ESA and also child tax allowance for our two children who have Aspergers and ADHD and as of this year both awarded DLA because of the degree of their disabilities.
I have MS and I don't know where to start? I don't know whether to claim ESA as I've never had to before, as prior to this I was just included in the claim that was just in his name. Or to claim carers allowance for my children and hope that it's topped up by Income Support?
Also I've been told that if I claim ESA that there is a seven day waiting period and that I wouldn't be paid anything at all for the first week of any claim?
I would appreciate any advice or help as I really just don't know what to do and I've got the rent to pay soon too!
Thank you.

Hi

You need to ring tax credits and inform them he's left. You can ask for a claim for you to get the tax credits for the kids.
I assume one or both get middle or higher rate care component of DLA so you are eligible to get carers for them. You can only get carers once. It should be more straight forward to get.
You need to cntact the council and get him removed from housing benefit and claim in your own name. You should also start an ESA claim for yourself. You should also get child benefit in your name if its in his at the moment.
I'm afraid you are going to get very familiar with the DWP. You cannot afford to sit and do nothing as you know. Perhaps your ex will pass the tax credits etc to you until they are changed into your name. It really is imperative you inform everyone he's left and get it all changed into your name.
You maybe should also contact social services and get what help you can from them?
You could also try your CAB office and see if someone there can help. You may also try a MS charity as some do offer benefit and welfare support.

www.mssociety.org.uk/ms-support/practica.../disability-benefits

Hiya - many thanks for your advice , will start all this as soon as possible depending on all their offices opening Christmas and New Years times!
I know I'm just going to dread the sight of those brown envelopes coming through the door!
Would you know if, when I start a claim for ESA , if I automatically lose a week due to their "waiting" days " ? So I would have a week in between where there would be no entitlement for any monies at all for us?
Thank you again - I really do appreciate your help.