I was with my ex-partner for more than 20 years. We were mostly happy and I expected us to be together for life. For well over half the relationship, I was the sole breadwinner and, at my ex’s request, managed our finances. We were reasonably well off, with savings and without a mortgage . We even had a holiday home, albeit a static caravan.

I retired early, and the problems we had in our relationship grew . We had both loved travel, but I was repeatedly told we couldn’t afford it , which I knew was nonsense . I went back to work in a demanding new field, but my ex showed no interest. I spent more time away from home and began therapy (my suggestion of couples’ therapy was rejected). After a year of therapy, I said I was leaving.

My ex said we couldn’t afford to split up. So, I gave them the house and more than half the savings, and moved to the caravan. In the last six years I have bought a new house, have a wonderful new partner and have travelled.…