Where do I turn to now?

Larumbelle

Hi claribelle.

Sorry to hear of your situation.

The jobcentres prefer you to do the claim over the phone now. The number is 08000 556688. It makes the claim process faster and will also be easier for you, as you won't have to get the kids up and out to the jobcentre.

They open at 8am, I would suggest calling at 8 if possible because Mondays are very busy and 8-9 is the quietest time.

They will process your claim, by the looks of things you will need to claim income support, and they will put your claim for council tax benefit in for you at the same time. They'll also advise on any other benefits you are entitled to and get the forms sent out for you.

There is a work interview that you will be required to attend, this normally gets deferred for loan parents but as you want to return to work it sounds like it would be beneficial to go to one, so make sure you tell the person that on the phone so they can book you one. You'll get to see a lone parent advisor who will double check that you are getting everything you are entitled to as well as discussing how to go about getting another job, including what to do about that reference. They'll know how hard it is to find a job that suits family life, so they'll probably be able to tell you which are the 'family friendly' employers.

Was there anyone else at the workplace who you got on with who could give you a reference? The new employer won't know that they weren't your line manager! I have done this in the past.

I do hope you get sorted out. It sounds like you are going through a rough time. :grouphug:

Claribelle

Thank you. This is so helpful.

I don't think I can 'forget' about this last job, Kellogs36, as I will have to produce my P45 or something similar for a future employer and am I right in thinking this will show where I last worked and when? I'm not sure though, I must admit. Nice thought though!

Thank you once again.

Larumbelle

If you do end up having to sign on you will get a p45 from the jobcentre.