Complicated situation RE: Unpaid 'apprenticeship' and benefits

Arya1

Hi there, I was hoping someone could shed some light onto my situation before I try the CAB.

I'm currently a single parent and full time student who will be finished with university in a few weeks, my child is 3 in June. I've just secured a place at a tattoo studio doing an apprenticeship there, which is unpaid until I'm fully trained and start earning money (usually a year or two) and is full time hours.

I'm not after advice on how I legally should be getting paid, I either do unpaid work or I won't ever have a job in this industry.

So, does anyone have any idea on where that leaves me in regards to financial support? Obviously JSA is off the cards, I'm mostly worried about paying my rent though. Would I get any housing benefit on zero income and not looking for paid work?
Really hoping someone can help, thanks.

Denning.

Housing benefit is done on income. Provided you have little savings you will get them full amount.

theoretica

As you are a lone parent to a child who is not yet 5 I think you may be eligible for income support.

Elfbert

I think I'm right in saying that these days you can't really call that an 'apprenticeship' - this is because Apprenticeships have a legal standing now, and result in a qualification. The minimum apprenticeship wage is £2.65 per hour.

I totally understand what you mean about never getting into the trade if you don't enter into the scenario you describe, but don't go and tell the council/JSA that you're doing an apprenticeship, because they'll think you will be getting paid, and they may even expect to see proof of being signed up for it/registered with exam boards etc.

I guess what you're doing is unpaid training, really? So wouldn't want them to misunderstand that and put you on the wrong benefits/allowances.

Good luck.