Job Seekers Allowance whilst studying

[Krepsly]

Recently became a single parent. Youngest child is 10. I am due to attend an interview at jobcentre tomorow where a "decision maker" will decide if my hours studying allow me to actively seek work.

I am at college 12 and a half hours a week. I know the limit is 15 but will they take into consideration study time at home?

Anyone any experience of this? really worried because I can't just drop the course, I've worked so hard at it and it finishes in June. If I drop it now I'll lose out on a possible university place and everything.

Will they see sense do you reckon?

I doubt it, but report back if they do as I'm interested.

Yes, have experienced it. I think they have some discretionary powers, especially if you can demonstrate that, once your course is finished, that your employment prospects/income will be very good and that it would see you off benefits altogether.

That was what I did, and I got a letter from them a few days later to confirm that I was entitled. I'm not entirely sure it was correct, but I think someone from there took pity on me, as I made it clear I hated being on benefits, and was trying to find a way to get off them for good and stand on my own two feet. Show them that you have no other qualifications, and this is your chance to get into the workplace.

Go for it!! But don't be passive - persuade them that this is their best way to never see you again!!

Good luck.

If you are studying you should be entitled tp lots it financial help as a single parent; have you spoken to an advisor about this?

If it doesn't work, go to the college/uni and push for a grant at the first date they become available.

Go to student services at your college and ask for advice there. They have probably dealt with the same situation before and may be able to issue a letter confirming your study arrangements.

I was in a similar situation, although I got IS instead of JSA. I got a grant from the college support fund, they helped with childcare and covered travel expenses/books for college.