Is this right?

Single_Dad_Still

Galloglass, thank you. That’s the sort of thing I’m thinking (circa £75 a month, a weeks food) but also things like 6th form bursaries to pay for equipment, university costs in the future etc. I’m not sure about the rent situation...the job centre (and online resources) keep telling me I’m not entitled to any support 🤷‍♂️. I’m just trying to navigate a system I know very little about but for years I have felt (known) was unfair. 

poppy12345

Single_Dad_Still said:

 university costs in the future etc.

Your 20 year old should look at student loans for when they start Uni, this is what a lot of students do. This and working along side to help pay for any extras they may need.

Single_Dad_Still

Thanks poppy, my 20yo is employed (on zero hours at minimum wage), the university reference is to my 17yo...and I’m aware of student loans etc but there’s extra support available for those who’s parents are in receipt of UC

Single_Dad_Still

I guess what I’m trying to explore is what support is available for that “middle ground”....rightly those who have no income are supported by the state and rightly, those who can afford to support themselves shouldn’t expect hand outs. But I’m caught in the middle and honestly can’t see a way forward. 

calcotti

Single_Dad_Still said: I’m not entitled to housing costs.. 

Are you renting from a relative?

Single_Dad_Still

No, private rent but every time I enter my details in UC (or at job centre interviews) I’ve had the same result. 

poppy12345

Once he leaves full time non advanced education then there will be no extra support available to you. Extra support for students will only apply if they claim a disability benefit or they have dependent children but any student loan can affect any means tested benefit they maybe entitled to.

Any child element you receive for the 17 year old will end in the September following their 19th birthday, even if they remain in full time non advanced education.

Single_Dad_Still

Ok thanks poppy. I was led to believe that my sons 6th form had an arrangement with a (fairly) local uni that those in need (in receipt of benefits) were encouraged to apply and were supported, as we are an area classed as “in poverty”. Maybe I was wrong. 

poppy12345

Single_Dad_Still said:

Ok thanks poppy. I was led to believe that my sons 6th form had an arrangement with a (fairly) local uni that those in need (in receipt of benefits) were encouraged to apply and were supported, as we are an area classed as “in poverty”. Maybe I was wrong. 

Encouraged to apply for what? Sorry i'm confused.

Single_Dad_Still

Encouraged to apply for the (local) uni, rather than one further away as the admissions panel were familiar with the area/college (and I’ll admit, it seemed to suggest an “advantage” but I don’t want to go down that road, I want to pay my rent and feed my kids).