Jobseekers Interview

dd0910

I have an interview at my local Jobcentre this week to see if I can claim Jobseekers allowance. I've never claimed this before as I have depression and social anxiety (to name but a few problems) and was just wondering if anyone could tell me what to expect as it will hopefully calm my nerves.

MissSarah1972

dd0910 wrote: »

I have an interview at my local Jobcentre this week to see if I can claim Jobseekers allowance. I've never claimed this before as I have depression and social anxiety (to name but a few problems) and was just wondering if anyone could tell me what to expect as it will hopefully calm my nerves.

You have never claimed before? How have you been living? I take it you have been working?

aliaslotte

Is it the first meeting?

You will go in and speak to someone on the front desk. They will direct you to a waiting area.
Someone will call your name [or come and collect you] and you will go and sit at their desk with them.
They will confirm your name, date of birth etc. They will ask to see your proof of ID - eg, passport, driving license - and they will take photocopies. They will ask what you have been doing to seek work and what three industries you are looking at. Together, you will come up with a 'job seekers agreement', which details how many things you have to do each week.
They will arrange your next appointment, with your personal advisor, and give you the record book you have to fill in to show what you have been doing to find work. Then you'll be free to go.


Hope that helps ease your nerves. It can be a little scary to think about, but it isn't too bad and it should only last around 30 minutes.

dd0910

MissSarah1972 - I have never had a job due to personal issues and have been looked after by my mum and partner.


aliaslotte - Yes, it's the first meeting. I don't think I'll get the benefit tho as I have no NI contributions and my partner works full time. I'm only applying now as things have become desperate.