17 and pregnant, not entitled to benefits?

killiebabe

She was previously at college, and then started seasonal work in March. Given that she is 17 now, am I right in thinking she was doing GCSEs or equivalent at college?

The fact that she left her course in March suggests she didn't complete it.

Her very best bet is to look at completing her basic education. The same is true for her boyfriend if he hasn't already done so.

If she has not completed her GCSEs, then she should recieve funding for them or the equivalent (Level 2) qualifications.



she left college last year in march for a part/full time job as she was sick of not having any decent money, after doing some of a child care course at college... she will be turning 18 this march 2012

Dognobs

Maybe they should have planned better!

killiebabe

oh i totally agree they should have planned things better in a ideal world as its always the parents who are left to pick up the pieces and bail them out!!!..

my hubby has been great with his daughter n helped her out financially alot recently but we cant keep it going long term or wel end up with no money left..

sandraroffey

because of her age, her best bet is to go to social services, who will help her get anything she is entitled to, including money for her boyfriends parents, who are taking care of her.

killiebabe

thanks sandra

is the social services the dept works and pensions ? in england same as it is here in scotland?

and would she n boyfriend be able to claim as a joint claim even tho hes 18 n shes only 17?

mildred1978

killiebabe wrote: »

thanks sandra

is the social services the dept works and pensions ? in england same as it is here in scotland?

and would she n boyfriend be able to claim as a joint claim even tho hes 18 n shes only 17?

No, social services is part of the local council. Nothing to do with DWP.

I doubt she would be entitled to anything, either alone or as part of a couple, until the baby arrives.

Suarez

When I was your age I was raising Pokemon, not babies

Morlock

mildred1978 wrote: »

I doubt she would be entitled to anything, either alone or as part of a couple, until the baby arrives.

Claiming as a couple will make no difference as she is still not 18, so therefore not eligible for any benefits. However, she is turning 18 in March so will then be entitled to claim JSA.

killiebabe

thnks for everyones help and advice

MrsManda

It may be worth her contacting her local jobcentre plus as they will be able to advise her on what she may be able to claim and help her fill out the forms.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/YoungPeople/Money/FinancialHelpForYoungPeople/DG_10027506