to advise my friend just to leave Universal Credit for her sanity?!

[Ubertasha2]

Hi guys,

Sorry if this is not the most appropriate place to post but:
My lovely friend has claimed UC for a few months (a small amount, just equivalent to JSA weekly payment, NOT housing benefit etc- just to give context, that she's not hugely dependent on this payment etc etc).

She has got fed up of going in WEEKLY (a quote: "I feel humiliated by the whole thing"), her life goals have changed a bit and she's now no longer seeking work but may take out a loan and go travelling instead for various reasons.

She doesn't want to claim any longer- feels the bit of money is NOT worth the hassle/humiliations etc, and wants to 'sign off'. She says that she told her 'work coach' this, and they said no, she can't- that even if she gets work, she must remain in the system for 6 months and MUST GO TO APPOINTMENTS/KEEP IN TOUCH etc etc. Like wtaf? Does she really have to keep going back/stay in touch even if she doesn't get any financial assistance/work advice?? Will she get a fine/sanction if she doesn't go back? How can she go in each week if she's going to be in NZ?

Thanks in advance; I have also researched as much as possible with her, but we can't get a definitive answer so any advice would be gratefully received!

[AndKnowItsSeven]

Devil I meant you as in the collective you.

[AndKnowItsSeven]

No it won't affect her at all, it just means the claim is live so re claiming within the six months is easier.

[Devilishpyjamas]

Ah okay (I am very confused by the whole system!)

[AndKnowItsSeven]

Think it's deliberately confusing.

[Ubertasha2]

Hi again, yes Roomba, you've hit the nail on the head- we both agree that it's like she's going to be tracked and joked that she not only doesn't want any money but would almost be happy to pay THEM to be free of the system.

And WildBelle, we both joined that group recently out of curiosity- it's fascinating!