what can i live on until benefits get sorted out?

Sarahsaver

Being a bit Bl**dy minded at times I would go to the benefits agency with my kids in tow. I did this once, AGES ago and it did work. Not v fair on the kids though it has to be said :eek:

MRS_TO_BE_2

Sadly the benefits agency (as it was then when you could drop in and get things sorted with kids on tow) closed a while back. Current procedure is to make customers phone....an 0845 number that costs too much especially when most customers are on PAYG and get charged 40p a minute. Staff in jobcentres are actively encouraged to reduce "footfall" and make it clear they are not there for benefits enquiries. However there are phones that customers can use...jobcentre might not encourage it but cant stop it!!!

Who does this new system help? No one. Not the benefits staff who are constantly frustrasted or the customers who are the ones that really matter.

Who is to blame? The government who want to centralise everything and cut staff......but please please complain to MP about service. Its the only way they will listen. Sorry rant over but after 10 years in this job I have never been so apalled and shocked at how bad things are with the mess the system is in. But I will keep beavering away and try and help as many people as I can....

Your friend really does need to apply for an emergency payment and if I.S claimed more than 7 days ago will more than likely be entitled. Just say she is in urgent need and has no money/savings

Sarahsaver

Oh I know! I know someone who works for Jobcentreplus, in a large city there are TWO people manning the phone line. Shocking. Then they wonder why people get irate.

CP your friend should be able to get some interim payment of sorts.