Residency permit

Kath, I'm not clear what the question is.  Are you intending to go back to the UK for a while? I don't really know anything about residency cards but it would seem to be better to apply early and be sure you have it.

Sorry Jane, I'm assuming that if his Mum passes away soon that I may have to return to the UK at short notice , to support him. So do I renew now or wait.

Oh, hugs, I am so sorry. I think that if the rules allow for applying early, doing it before you go would be wise. Sorting out things when someone passes away always takes longer than you expect, and having residency already sorted is one less thing you'll need to think about.

Definitely apply early.

If your immigration office is strict and always sticks to the books and rules, they can refuse to let you renew your card if you are late, as the rule is two weeks before at the latest. If that’s the case, you will need to start over with D visa and residence permit.