only just told to let my mortage go into arrears and phone Mabs!
This is very odd advice. Are they implying that it is ok to go into arrears?
You should ask them for any such advice in writing. As they presumably won't do it, you should write to them confirming the details of the conversation.
EBS is bound by the Mortgage Arrears Code which you should read.
EBS are not obliged to continuously give you interest only. However, they are obliged to have a MARP - Mortgage Arrears Resolution Process. You can appeal any decision within EBS.
Under the MARP, you are obliged to pay as much as you can. However, if you are paying as much as you can and it is at least 66% of the interest, they will defer the balance into a Deferred Interest Account.
As you can pay 100% of the interest, you should be ok.
I think being suicidal is an overreaction. What is the worst that can happnen to you? They insist on full capital and interest. You can pay the interest only. You fall into arrears. Your credit rating will be damaged, but that is all that this means. There is no risk that they will take legal action, much less repossess your house.
Brendan