need to re-train what benefits will I get?

emmafifema

Hi,

I am currently recovering from a spinal surgery and have been off work for over 6 months because of the original problem. My doctor has said that I can't go back to work/doing the job that I am trained in which is childcare due to the lifting aspect of it. He has said I need to get a job which does not require lifting as my spinal condition could be worsened.

I have looked online and see that I may be able to get on a course at college whilst claiming JSA (obviously when I am fit for work again) and it will be funded. What I need to know is will i be able to get some sort of benefits if I do go to college as I have a 14 year old son to support.

I am a bit confused as I have seen on the college website that people in receipt of JSA can get funded for some courses one of which I would want to do (business administration) .... but some people online are saying that you have to be doing less than 16 hours a week at college - the admin course is well over that????

Any help appreciated x

emmafifema

so I've just done a bit more searching and the course I'm looking at is actually 48 hours but it doesnt say over how many weeks??

~Beanie~

It depends how many hours per week the course is for. If you are studying full time or over a certain amount of hours a week (think its 16?) then you can't claim JSA as you are classed as not being available for work.

The_Saver_2

You might want to double check this with the Job Centre. I mentioned in my last interview that I wanted to do voluntary work full-time so that I developed new skills and that I could use the experience to enhance my CV and maybe think about a different career. I know this is different to doing a course but I was told I would be expected to still do my job search (in the evenings). The main thing (I think!) is that a) you prove that you are still looking for work and b) you will accept a position that is offered, even if you're only part way through the course.
You might also want to check out Vision2learn who do this course online and for free, at your own pace.

saintjammyswine

Check with the college to see of the have ESF Skills Support for the Unemployed funding. This is for anyone on JSA or ESA (WRAG) to get training and covers a lot of courses. You have to be referred by JCP so speak to them about it as well. It was only awarded recently so keep trying of they dont know anything about it, it is new!