Former Big Brother star Orlaith McAllister has spoken out about her anxiety as she struggles to bring up two small children on benefits.

Speaking publicly for the first time about her ordeal, the model admitted she has succumbed to tears at times as she copes with raising two-year-old Eva and Anthony (four months), both fathered by millionaire ex, property developer Gary McCausland.

The pair split two years ago but Orlaith became pregnant by him last year following a one-off night together.

They will face each other in court later this month over maintenance payments — but in the meantime the Belfast model is relying on government benefits.

“Maintenance stopped four months ago after I had Anthony and I’ve had to get benefits,” Orlaith (30) revealed in an exclusive interview with the Sunday Life.

“Just all of a sudden there was no maintenance — it was just gone and it was a bolt from the blue.

“I’m not claiming the dole — it’s benefits for my children. I really wished I hadn’t to do this but it’s the only way at the minute that I can survive, me and the kids.”

Mr McCausland (41) has paid rent on the Belfast home where Orlaith is living until October and looks after his daughter on regular weekend visits to his family in Dungannon.

Orlaith admit she has succumbed to tears but not around her children.

“I don’t let them see it. If I’m ever that way it’s at night time when I’ve got the kids to bed,” she said.

“I’ve been living on the breadline but I’ve always made sure that when the money comes in I go out and get what I have to.”

Orlaith also spoke of her dream of starting her own business once Anthony is a little older.

“I love nails, so I’m thinking of doing a nail course and maybe set up my beauty salon in the next year,” she said.