Can a 17 yr old claim any help whilst looking for a job?

I,M_SAD

Bsically that is it,my ds 17 yrs he did badly in As levels and does not wish to pursue further education at moment,he wants to go live with his dad in Australia but now informs me not just yet.He needs to get a job but he is being really funny when I say that to him,I have said go to job centre and they will give you options but he thinks I am being totally money grabbing and said he will never go on benefits!!I think he should seek some help with anything he can claim whilst looking for a job,can he get any help or benefits or am I mistaken.

Glen0000

You can't get JSA until you are 18, unless he is in severe hardship (eg kicked out by parents).

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/MoneyTaxAndBenefits/BenefitsTaxCreditsAndOtherSupport/Employedorlookingforwork/DG_10018757

I,M_SAD

Can a 17 yr old then claim anything,he is not in position of being kicked out:rolleyes:yet.!! But do need some help if anyone knows anything.Thank you.

Rikki

Can he not get a job?

He can work at seventeen but not claim JSA.

Glen0000

I,M_SAD wrote: »

Can a 17 yr old then claim anything,he is not in position of being kicked out:rolleyes:yet.!! But do need some help if anyone knows anything.Thank you.

You are on your own really. You can't claim anything unti you are 18 if you are fit and healthy, in a stable home, living with parents.

Why can't he work?

I,M_SAD

Well good lord I hope so,but he has so far been unsuccessful,albeit he has not tried very hard,,I think as well if job centre actively involved as in him making a record of things he won,t be quite so lazy,but at same time I am doing all the spendies for him,for jobs,letters,etc.Anybody been in same position.

magic57

Hi
Has your son tried going to connexions? http://www.connexions-direct.com/

My son is in the same position and I am packing him off to talk to them. Also you can still get child benefit for anothe 4 months (I think) if he registers with them.
Sometimes they can advise on jobs. It's not easy for 17 year olds. Good luck.

clairec79

If he has worked since turning 16 he may be entitled to Bridging Allowance for a few weeks. It's only about £15 a week though

nettty

Connexions is a good suggestion. If he went to college he may be entitled to education maintainance allowance - up to £30 per week but it is means tested.

He could also do an apprenticeship. Here he would be employed but learning a trade. They come in every occupational area now - not just construction trades. Again, connexions will help - they even have employers advertising.