Should I go back to my dodgy ex?

DEAR DEIDRE: After 15 years, I met up with an ex and now all the feelings have come flooding back – but there is something dodgy about him.

We met on holiday when I was 19 and he was 24. We then split up because of the distance between us back home.

I was heartbroken but neither of us would move so that was that.

I’m 34 now and single after a long-term relationship. Initially, I was so happy when he made contact again. He said he’d never forgotten me and asked to meet.

When we did, he told me he has four children by three women but has never settled with any of them.

He has supervised visits for his younger two as his ex accused him of mental abuse.

He said his job is looking after a young girl of 17 with disabilities. She self-harms.

It seems weird that he’d have supervised visits with his children and yet hold down a job like this. I still have feelings for him but can I trust him?

DEIDRE SAYS: Don’t rush into anything. He’s responsible for four children and that’s a big commitment.

If this relationship is going to work, you’ll have to accept that he comes as a package with them.

He’s been honest about what his ex is saying about him so perhaps it’s his word against hers.

He’s certainly entrusted with an important job.

If you see him again, ask lots of questions, check out his body language and go on your gut instinct.