DEAR DEIDRE: WHEN my children ask me why I am not married to their dad, I don’t know what to tell them – because I don’t know the answer myself.

I’ve asked my partner about getting married, but he always says we can’t afford it with four children. It is the same excuse each time.

No issue is too small, too large or too embarrassing. Read our personal replies here.

We have been together for 18 years. He is a good dad and we want for nothing. We both work hard and have good jobs.

However he has yet to even propose to me.

Every problem gets a personal reply, usually within 24 hours weekdays.

You can also send a private message on the DearDeidreOfficial Facebook page.

I feel very down as I am fast approaching 40. He is 42. I don’t want to be in a relationship which isn’t fully committed.

I feel very unattractive, undervalued and a mug. What on earth can I do in order to get him to commit?

DEIDRE'S STORIES

Marcus is worried his girlfriend Eden could have an STI – but how?

DEAR DEIDRE

My wife packed handcuffs and nipple tassels to see her cousin for the weekend

HITCH-ED

NO NOOKIE

DEIDRE SAYS: You have got patience by the bucket-load but you two need a proper talk.

Decide just what is important to you about being married – is it the legal commitment, religious reasons, romantic ideals?

Do you feel so strongly it is a relationship deal-breaker for you?

Talk to him when you can put your arguments clearly and explain the effects it is having on your self-worth.

My support pack Standing Up For Yourself will help.