I'm so utterly weary and ground down.
I signed on 2 weeks ago. The online form has a space to put dates and times you cannot attend your initial Jobseeker's Allowance interview. I put in my hospital appointment, and my appointment with my local council that I must attend.
The DWP texted my initial interview for the time and date of the council meeting. I called straightaway, explained and was told it was an acceptable reason and given a new date two days later.
Had the initial interview and all good. Went today to sign on and was told my payment will only be granted from today because I refused to attend the first date offered. Basically this is missing a whole week of money. The notes on the screen said I "was warned that changing the date would have implications for my claim", well no I was fucking not! I explained why I couldn't go that day at that time and the woman I spoke to said that it was ok to change it.
Rock and a hard place - if I hadn't attended the council meeting it would delay my taking part on the council scheme to find a private rental who accepts housing benefit. The council deem my current housing to be unacceptable, they agree with me I need to move. Depressingly, their whole s