Does it make sense for me to claim UC?

pkwpkw1

I'm currently employed on a 0-hours contract in a low-paid job but have been increasingly unable to earn enough due to combination of low availability of shifts and my own health issues, I've been struggling with depression & anxiety sumptoms for years as well as fatigue due to past illness, however these haven't been formally diagnosed. But that means I have to be picky about picking up shifts and also sometimes have to cancel them, so I don't have enough.

I've been making efforts to change my career direction towards more technical field which would suit me better and have spent quite a bit of time doing (paid) courses ofer the last year which also affected my availability to pick up shifts with my current work, and am curretnly actively seeking work in that field. I've supported myself mostly on savings but they have gone down dramatically.

So I'm wondering whether it's time to claim UC now. However I am anxous about dealing with DWP and other agencies, just to speak to them, never mind regular appointments etc. I've been on HB and WTC in the past but I came off them, largely because the stress wasn't worth it, and I ended up with overpayments which added another layer of stress.

So to get to the point, how strict are DWP in terms of commitments, can they insist I just go back to my current job and pick up more shifts, or force me to take on any job even if it's plainly not suitable? (I went for a different minimum-wage job recently but I couldn't handle it physically). Is it worth the hassle and setress? As I'm already searching for a job, can this be taken into account? I will add also that I will have to claim jointly with my partner, but she is NRPF so she won't be counted My savings will last us for 2-3 months more.

Appreciate any advice.

huckster

Weekly appointments for first 13 weeks of being on UC if you are not earning enough (threshold £892 gross pay per monthly assessment period)

Yes you will be expected to work hours available, so you earn as much as possible.

If your health is causing you problems with working, speak to your GP about a fit note or seek other help.

If you don't provide a fit note  the claimant commitment will be about finding employment you could do.