jobseeker benefit-backlog

[jillyb]

hey

Just wondering if anyone else is feeling the affect of this. i signed only two weeks ago,cos was waiting couple weeks while looking for a job. probably foolish cos i still have no job and in SW they said it could 4-6weeks to process my claim!

 

[Welfarite]

There are huge backlogs in many offices due to the unprecedended increase in the Live Register (up to 70% in some offices in SE!) and staff are struggling to cope with the volumes.

 

[gipimann]

If you have no income while waiting on Jobseeker's, you can make an application for Supplementary Welfare Allowance (SWA) by contacting your Community Welfare Officer at the local health centre. SWA is means-tested (unlike Jobseeker's Benefit), but if you qualify, it can be paid until your JB comes through or until you begin work.

 

[jillyb]

hey thanks for the replies! sounds like they really have their work cut out so to catch up.