Memorygirls - The Matrix Re-inspired

Memory_Girl

Willow92 wrote: »

Hello again...is it possible to be too proud to claim JSA? Don't mean to offend if anyone on here does claim any benefits....

I think, like most things on here, its about your mindset.

Don't know how far back you have read on these threads, but I spent some time as a single mum on benefits. I didn't enjoy the situation and worked really hard to get myself back into work. BTW we really are no better off than when we were on benefits, but I feel better in myself for being this way.

I regarded my time on benefits as being a "hand-up" rather than a "hand-out" - that they were there as a basic safety net for me and the boys - and for me they were entirely necessary at the time and for that I am grateful.

I ave always paid my taxes - and those taxes are used to pay for schools, roads, hospitals and benefits. I am not too proud to use my local library, hospital and soon to use a local school - so wasn't too proud to claim benefits.

Get signed on love - and use it as a challenge to figure out how to live WELL on a limited income whilst looking for your job - it can be done. Then when you are in work you will have a marvellous skill set - the ability to live well on a little and save a lot towards your dream life.

Does that even make sense???

MG

thriftyscotslass

IME in spite of having worked (and paid into the system) since I was 14, I still find it painful to claim benefits. For the past 2.5 years, my son (19) has claimed Incapacity Benefit and Disability Living Allowance and I have claimed Carer's Allowance.

I would like to be too proud / too rich to claim but am also very grateful that benefits are available to us and they certainly help to pay the bills. On a practical note, don't forget that claiming JSA will ensure that your National Insurance Contributions are up-to-date and these are essential for your future pension plus if you ever need to claim for ESA or other benefits. I think you can also work for up to 16 hours whilst claiming JSA.

Don't listen to judgemental tv and tbh I would steer clear of the benefits boards here on MSE, there are far too many judgemental types around for my liking. Try to take your emotions out of the equation and deal from a position of common sense.

(((Hugs))) Thriftyxxx

Eta: good thoughts from MG.

Souk08

Willow, get thee to thy Job Centre love. Like MG I think we all pay into the pot and I would have no problem taking some out if ever I needed to. It's not a lot but it's a help UNTIL YOU FIND A JOB and thats all XXX

claudiac_2

Makes perfect sense MG!

Willow - Don't be too proud to sign on, it is a little bit of money to help while you are job searching, and it covers your NI as well I think. It is hard to find work at the moment, but I am sure you will find something. Good luck!

Marru

When I left DD's dad I was on housing benefit. I hated it but it was necessary until I got my confidence up enough to climb back on my career ladder. Talking about career ladder, I am going to post a little dilemma on the other side. Any thoughts gratefully received.

We are at work in the middle of a month end. DD banged her head yesterday and is now saying that she is not feeling well enough to go to school. So I have called to say that I can't come to work. Oh bother. Bad timing.

tellmeitsfriday

DD is much more important that work anyway Marru

Month end will still be there waiting for you tomorrow x

Marru

Thanks TMIF

It has just been difficult lately with the time off stuff. It is my insecurities talking making me feel that every time I am not there it goes as a black mark against me.

Memory_Girl

OOh!!! Just noticed the date!!!!


HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY MATRIXETTES!!!!


Well!!! any opportunity for a celebration :rotfl:

MG

Memory_Girl

Calling Friendly Matrix Peeps

Can anyone help me?

I have written out my recipes and collecting photos as we go for the healthy eating recipe book. Can someone help me create a word template that is branded like the blog so that I can cut n paste my piccies / recipes to email out to you guys.

I am struggling with my new version of Word - ideally would like to save the file as a PDF to make it easier to email out.

PM me if you can spare me an hour

MG

clairewop

Good morning

Flying visit from me this morning.

My downstairs looks lovely and is back to normal washed all the floors this morning. just need to put the piles of washed clothes thaat are on my bed away when I come back.

Willow I second what everyone else is saying, get signed on. I'm currently claiming incapacity benefit, and as everyone will tell you here I hate it, I'm slowly trying to come off it.

Right got to meet mum now.

Sorry MG can't help with your dilemma, I'm hopeless at computers