Partner in hospital JSA being uncooperative

PensionsStuff

Hi all,

Based in England, my partner receives JSA and had a rrgualr meeting planned yesterday which she always says she absolutely has to attend. Unfortunately since Sunday night shes been sedated in hospital with a severe illness that, best case scenario, will stay like that for another two weeks but reality is probably longer.

I called the benefits side and explained I just perhaps wanted a note added to her record, that she hasn't yet started employment so if the amount can still be paid for now that would help (very much needed to help her cover direct debits and not for example have missed CC payments , i am struggling myself so cant spare much to put into her account and also dont have access to her bank or emails etc to contact companies directly).

Spoke to 3 people, and went in person, everyone I've spoken to has just flat out refused to speak to me without her authority and I cant get further.

Does anyone have any advice on if, and how, i can do something?. Thank you

itsthelittlethings

Is she so ill she can't make the call herself. I know it's difficult but if she can call them herself this will be better. They will not speak to you without her permission.

NedS

Ask the hospital to issue a fit note stating she is unfit for work, then drop that into the jobcentre on her behalf and advise them of the situation.

If she does not attend her appointment or provide a fit note within 5 days, her claim will likely be closed.

twopenny

They won't pay JSA if she is not available, able to work.

I had something similar happen to me some years ago but they were surprisingly sympathetic and there is a system set up for some credit to be paid. Sorry I can't remember what but they were helpful.

Would they accept a letter from her, even if you type it and she signs it? Often old style cuts through the red tape.

Informing the cc company they may put a hold on the need for payments. I've heard of that being rejected but if it's a good high street bank they may have sympathy or be able to do something. Again, a letter with signature goes on record where phone calls and emails don't always.

Robbie64

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82052888#Comment_82052888

I believe you are allowed two weeks of sickness absence in one year while claiming as unemployed. I don't know how this will work for someone on JSA, as the benefit is only payable for 6 months but I'm assuming the same rules (two weeks sickness) apply.

sheramber

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/6674443/partner-in-hospital-jsa-being-uncooperative

According to Gov.UK afriend or relative can call on the person's behalf

https://www.gov.uk/going-to-hospital-benefits

NedS

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82053117#Comment_82053117

and one extended period of sickness of upto 13 weeks when covered with a fit note, after which you should make a claim for ESA.

huckster

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82052881#Comment_82052881

agree with fit note as way to proceed.

For a JSA work search failure to attend ( presuming first appointment to issue claimant commitment was attended), a letter is issued giving 7 days to provide a reason and if reason not provided or accepted, a Decision Maker would then apply sanction.

So get a fit note to the Job Centre and offer explanation. JSA payments should continue for now provided claim period has not expired