Benefits and work placed pensions

twonk_2

After 37 years with the same public sector employee I was made redundant in December 2011. At this time I thought it prudent to make an early claim on my work placed pension in the hope I would find another job. I am receiving £900 a month of this pension but after 13 months of trying and after 14 interviews I still haven't found a job. As my mortgage is £750 a month I have been paying all of my other commitments out of my redundancy payment but this will run out within the year when I will be in danger of losing my house. I have been told I cannot claim job seekers allowance as I receive a work place pension but the outlook is bleak as should I lose my home I will not be able to rent as the costs involved are similar to my mortgage, I am therefore faced with the awful prospect of being placed on the streets with my 70 year old wife. (I should add that I am 55 and my wife has to work part time for the time being due to this situation, she does not receive a state pension as she was caught up in the married women's stamp fiasco. This situation cannot last long due to her failing health).

Can anybody please offer any advice as to whether there are any benefits I can claim until I find employment.

Many thanks

[Deleted User]

is there any equity in your house?could you not sell and downsize?

twonk_2

Unfortunately no, we bought when the market was high although we are not in negative equity.