What to do ..

Could you move to a cheaper, maybe unfashionable area? The South East is rather pricy. I wish I could offer better advice. I believe that renting is a terrible drain on one's income as you never stop paying rent but if you buy a small flat or house you'd then have the expense of maintenance.
I wonder what retirement flats are like? I understand the main problem is that they're on a lease and the ground rent goes up hugely each year which is dreadful. I bought a new-build small house which is all right - bot not perfect. I muddle along. I hope others can advise you better. Good luck.

There are a number of housing associations that have properties go the over 55’s.
You need to contact Age Concern who will be able to tell you what is available locally.

How big are their gardens?
Could you live closely but independently at the bottom of one?(garden, I mean!)
If so, then a small log cabin could be a solution.
Obviously a lot of factors have to be taken into consideration but it could work.
It has for other gransnetters.

Do either of your children have a big enough house that you can pay to build an annexe for yourself? I have moved from Wales to the SE to be near my children and managed to buy a one bedroom flat with my divorce settlement but it is much more expensive here. I still work part time at 65 ( I like to) and also have 2 tiny private pensions plus state one. I’m not sure how Ill manage financially when I finally give up work

Thanks for your suggestions. Good idea about contacting Age Concern and like the idea of building a home in a garden if only my children had one big enough. Shall keep scratching my head.

Clarion Housing Association is the biggest housing provider in the SE.

They are very helpful and offer a range of ways for people to find suitable rented properties.

They also do shared ownership.
Phone number.
0300 500 8000.
Google for the website.

I hope this helps. You are in a difficult situation.

As you are separated not divorced will you receive any other asset or income once the divorce is finalized? You may be entitled to part of his pension for example?

Unfortunately I married him when he was retired so his first wife already got part of his pension. Not sure I did the right thing in leaving but by jove I’m so much happier, poorer but happier!