Finding Work

02/07/2008

Q: I wonder if anyone can advise me on a confusing problem I have encountered with my local Jobcentre. I sign on every two weeks and secure my insurance credits under the Jobseekers agreement. Last week I was told that I will have to stop my two part time jobs and do a course on how to get a job - without any compensation for the loss of earnings. This course can last from 13-26 weeks and longer if you have not got a job. This means I lose two jobs to learn how to get a job. Can you advise?

 

 

The Benefits Doctor says:

When you sign on each week as a “jobseeker” you are in effect signing on to say that you are actively looking for full-time work. This is probably why the jobcentre expect you to undertake work-related activity which will help you move in to full-time work. I can certainly understand why it doesn’t seem logical to give up two part- time jobs though!

 

Did the Jobcentre advisor discuss any other options? For example, you might possibly increase your part-time jobs to move into the bracket of NI? That way you wouldn’t need to sign on as a jobseeker to get your NI paid.