General Chat

Hi

Can anyone advise how long unemployment benefit is paid for?

Esta

Initially 6 months, then depending on your review, it can go on longer, but max a year I think.

Each case is on it's own merit.

Many thanks - I think I've found the info on line - I didnt realise it was now called Job Seekers allowance.

Esta

Have you become a statistic Esta?

No my son (now 20) is still causing me some difficulty. He has never worked nor does he want to. He wants me to pay for a £1700 course and says he will 'contribute' towards it (he doesn't contribute to housekeepinjg or anything else). So far since leaving school he hasn't finished any course he has started and now says that he intends to do this course (you do it from home via books and the internet) whilst still on the dole (no don't hate me - both my husband, myself and my daughter all work).

I was made redundant a few years back and thought there was an upper time limit that you could claim for.

Anyway he's playing the emotional guilt trip at the moment on me and I want to be sure of my facts before I speak to him tonight. Don't you just love kids!

Esta

Esta, check with the benefits agency first , your son might get a grant for the course without losing his dole money or having the money from you...depends on the 'study time' , worth a try!

Yes, they WANT you to get back to work, and offer lots of courses which they help with payment for...also lots of courses offer special concessions for those on benefits, so it's worth while looking. You shouldn't have to pay the full amount for him.

have a look here perhaps

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/EducationAndLearning/AdultLearning/index.htm

If it is the Open Uni by any chance, he would probably qualify for a bursary.