Apprenticeship as an adult

[Deleted User]

I understand that a lot of apprenticeships are not limited with age no more and I even hear a lot of stories of individuals who are over the usual; 16-24 ages completing an apprenticeship.

What worries me is, if you work 37.5 hours in the first year and only get NMW for an apprentice for this first year, do they take the total amount you earn into consideration when looking into help with things such as housing costs etc?

Obviously I don't want to apply and go and accept an apprenticeship if I cant afford to pay the rent etc.

calcotti

You can claim Universal Credit which includes help with rent (assuming you do not have capital over £16,000). Your UC award will be reduced by 63% of your earnings. If your earnings are over £78/week (if you are single) you will not be required to look for work.

[Deleted User]

I thought that would be the case. I'm on JSA at the moment with HB and CTB, so it would be better if I accepted an apprenticeship to claim UC?

calcotti

MarkN88 wrote: »

I thought that would be the case. I'm on JSA at the moment with HB and CTB, so it would be better if I accepted an apprenticeship to claim UC?

Not necessarily. If you start an apprenticeship you will lose JSA but can continue to get HB and CTR (there will be a reduction in the amount due to your wages).

If you claim UC your HB ends but you continue to get CTR. If you are earning 37.5 hours at £3.70 this is £138.75/week or £601.25/month resulting in a UC deduction of £378.79/month. This will eat into the housing element.

You need to put the numbers into a benefits calculator and compare the results https://www.entitledto.co.uk

I suspect there will not be much difference and continuing with HB should be easier to manage than claiming UC.

pmlindyloo

If you are of a more mature age you may be lucky and find an employer who will pay more than the NMW for apprentices in the first year.

[Deleted User]

Thanks guys ill have a look at some numbers.

I'm 30.

Some roles I have seen have stated the exact 3.70ph but some I have seen have said like between various amounts between 12 and 16k starting salary so obviously this would be better.