Help from JSA for a professional

GMWXP

Hi all,

Some advice needed. I finished my Masters in October and secured my job in November. However, it has been a long winded process as I am a social worker and therefore had CRB's references from numerous (more than the usual 2 employers) and lots of other pre-employment clearances. Basically this has meant I will now start my job next week.

I put my claim for jsa in November and before my interview/claim was processed I had received 2 conditional job offers (i.e. i pass all crb, checks, etc). At the Interview I informed the adviser and she was pretty flexible basically said that I can continue signing on and don't need to be applying for jobs.

Anyways, as I have been a student for the last few years I have outgrown my smart clothes. Therefore, can i ask the adviser for the discretionary fund to help me buy a suit/smart clothes until my first wage? And i will also be relocating over 100 miles, so need to rent accommodation. Unfortunately they're asking for a big deposit, which I cant afford (till first wage). Can I apply for a crisis loan to see me over till payday.

Lack of smart clothing will clearly be a barrier to work as will having nowhere to stay. If I can apply can I do it without an appointment. My next signing on is Monday when I start the new job.

Any advice appreciated.

Thanks

beecher2

Your accommodation is more of an issue than smart clothes - presumably you have clothes which you used to interview and can pick up a couple of tops in Primark for very little outlay. However if you start work on Monday you need to sort out paying for the accommodation very urgently. I can't understand why you have left it so incredibly late! Are you eligible for a Job Grant?
https://www.gov.uk/job-grant