First time mummy, Sadly a single mummy due to personal and devastating circumstances that means I had to apply for Income Support, So please be understanding.
I contacted them about 3 weeks ago (They said I had to wait until 11 weeks before my due date to be able to apply, I applied at about 10 weeks and 3 days before my due-date). I've been to the meeting at the Job Center to sign the paperwork, and went to another meeting earlier this week - But that wasn't mandatory
I was told when I originally applied on the phone, I was told I would know by the 10th May if I've been accepted or not. I know its the 10th Today and it might seem alittle ''Jumping the Gun'', But alot of people I've spoken to said it takes 6-8 weeks for the first payment to go though!!!! So I am alittle worried now.
I don't quite understand why they won't allow you to apply until so soon and then make you wait so long. I am purely relying on the money from Income Support to buy the things I need for the baby. I also have to wait for it to be approved before I can apply for the SureStart Maturity Grant, Which again, Will take weeks to process.
I'm really worried that the baby is going to be here before I have any money at all. My parents say they will give me the money to get the things I will need and pay them back when I have the money, But, Obviously its not very ideal.
Should I give them a call and ask for an update on whats going on? It can't hurt can it, Surely? I'm sorry, I've never had to claim for any money before, and as I said, I'm a first time mummy, all of this is so new to me. Its making me quite emotional worrying about money :( I know once its sorted everything will be fine, But until then, I'm just worrying.