Job seekers - help and guidance needed

andyi

So I've been signed on for Job seekers allowance for 4 weeks now. In my initial interview it was outlined that given my previous work history there would be very little they could help me with other that travel costs to interviews etc

So I've applied for approx 500 jobs over the last few weeks, not back in work as yet but some success, had a few interviews (not bad for only 4 weeks) some face to face, some telephone.

Today I was contacted by one of the companies I've had a telephone interview for and success, they'd like a face to face interview

One slight catch, the position is in the Rep of Ireland, which I'm not adverse to the idea of working over there, its the getting there for the interview whilst on a meager £70 a week

So I've asked the JCP for help today towards costs to get to said interview, only to be told that if I was leaving the country that deems me not available for work (i'm going for an interview for a job?!), and I would need to sign off JSA for the day as the Rep of Ireland is not in the EU (JCP's words not mine)

And finally they wouldn't help towards travel costs. Yet they went onto remind me they could also stop my JSA entitlement if I don't apply for work and attend interviews.

Arrrgggghh, Frustrated isn't the word, could someone give me some guidance if what I've been informed is correct, I did point out that the Rep of Ireland is in Europe only to be corrected and shut down.

I'm wondering if they are wrong on their geography they may also be wrong on other matters?

Please help, I have a real opportunity with a company i'd like to work for and any guidance or assistance to get the system to help me would be appreciated

Thanks

iammumtoone

Sorry I don't know the answer to your question, but I would have thought you should be a JC ideal client, you are prepare to re-locate many won't or can't (due to family etc).

I would say that should think about informing your MP about this treatment, whilst it won't help you in this instance they do need to be told of what is happening.

Have you asked if you are able to get a loan to help?

Dogger69

Help with travel costs is now discretionary - it is up to the individual JCP if they grant you assistance. If offered the job, will you realistically be able to take it? Remember you'll have more than the air/ ferry fare to pay if you move there long term.

maginot

Are you sure they didn't say the UK rather than the EU?
As mentioned travel costs are discretionary and even if they were not I doubt very much they would provide travel for people to seek work in other countries.
Otherwise I would be seeking work in the south of France every summer