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Temp worker out of work - Can I claim JSA?

Hi everyone,

I'm currently a temporary worker, working in an assignment which is due to end at the end of the month. I've been in this assignment for over a year, and having been temping for over two years after losing my permanent job.

I've been incredibly lucky as a temp and have never really been out of work since I started temping; having signed up with several agencies and really pushing to get work if I knew my assignment was coming to an end. I've also been applying for permanent jobs, but have currently had no luck.

The trouble I am no facing is that due to an ongoing medical condition which I am finally going to get treated for I am going to be really be unable to work full time for the next couple of months as I'll be being treated every Friday for 3-4 months. This is limiting me in finding a new temporary assignment/permanent job, as many the agencies I am registered with are telling me they are getting very few part time assignments.

My question is, if the worst comes to the worst and I cannot find a new assignment to go into once this one ends would I be able to claim Job Seekers Allowance or an equivalent 'benefit'? After filling out the questionnaire on Entitled2 it would appear that I would be eligible for JSA, however I wondered if this would be correct as a temporary worker I am signed up to agencies and therefore whilst I may not be in an assignment, would I appear on Government systems as someone in work as I won't be getting a P45 etc. once this assignment ends? Plus I may only end up being out of work for a couple of weeks, or perhaps it would be months?

I am eager to work, and would hope that going onto any sort of 'benefit' would be a temporary measure. I just want to ensure that I am fully informed as to what my options would be should the worst happen.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Comments

  • Yes you'll be able to claim - I was a Temp worker at the start of June when it came to an abrupt end so found I was entitled to JSA, I am sure I got income based JSA, I am even still awaiting the recruitment agency's P45 from back then, never mind hearing anything else like being in dispute as still an employee under the Temporary Worker or registered with agencies alone, so as long as it's you being let go it shouldn't be an issue whether with notice or not - you have an assignment ended not through choice

    I didn't even make it to 2 'consecutive sign on's' at the Jobcentre here in East Anglia (though I don't think I liked going there really so thank goodness) just look after yourself and don't let the recruitment agency place you in some rubbish few days desporado of an assignment because 'that's all they have' even then the Jobcentre can apply a level of discretion if you are wanting to take the opportunity/some time out to better yourself in terms of trying for a more perm position so don't think you are forced into taking the first thing of a rough diamond that comes along if it doesn't pay to do so, just because you've done temporary work before ;) (yeah there might be bit of a loophole here but temporaries aren't much protected in any other regard)


    I'll hope a permanent job comes up for you and you'll be able to have your appointments with the government's help regardless inbetween searching for work (Jobcentre asks if you need to restrict working hours and if you have any medical conditions that may affect gaining employment at the new claim appointment) always found cooperate with them and their alright really. Hope I've not gone overboard as per usual, but I don't think you need worry xx
  • elouber
    elouber Posts: 24 Forumite
    Seventh Anniversary 10 Posts Combo Breaker
    That's absolutely brilliant - thank you for the information!
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