interview with new deal lone parent office

wazza

can't remember if the title is correct. received a letter stating it has been 6 months since i started claiming income support as a lone parent. they have asked me in for an interview next week as part of NDLP or whatever scheme probably to update their records and see how i am succeding with finding a job.

is there anything i should be aware of?

Fran

If you don't attend it may affect your benefit. This should just be an interview asking about your attempts (or not as you don't have to while on IS) to find work.

Becles

If you are looking for work, they are very helpful.

I claimed Income Support and went on New Deal for Lone Parents when my ex left me. I have good computer skills but no 'bit of paper' that says I can do things. They paid for me to do CLAIT and ECDL courses, gave me money towards petrol to get to the course centre and interviews, and gave me vouchers to get 2 new blouses and 2 skirts/trousers for interviews and starting work. The lady I dealt with was lovely, and I passed the courses and got a job within 4 months of my ex leaving.

mandym

As Fran said, if you don't attend, your IS will be affected, you would lose 20% of your personal allowance until you did attend one unless you have good enough reason for them to defer your interview to a later date.

They really won't try and force you into work, but as Becles pointed out they can be really helpful if you are looking for work, now or in the future by discussing what options you have and showing what help might be available to you.

arwen_2

Hi

I have been claiming IS for some time now. For the past 3 years i have had to attend a interview. They are quite informal they ask if you are interested in getting back to work, advice on college courses and funding if any are available.

Tbh they haven't told me anything i don't already know but they are compulsory.