The past few months i have been unemployed and claiming job seekers allowance. I would not wish this fate on anybody.

The job centre is run by idiots, public sector pen pushers who should be in the dole queue themself as they would never get a job in the private sector.


I messed up the other day... I was suppose to sign on late afternoon, but i had to go up near manchester in the morning to help my grand mother do her shopping while other family members (who live closer, are on holiday).

I set off about 10ish and expected to be back well before my sign on time. Little did i know i would get stuck behind a load of traffic on one of the motorways, then again the park way was jammed in sheffield due to some motorbike been on fire in the road.


So i called the job centre and let them know why i could not come in, i was told just to come in the next day and sign and explain what happened.

I went in as i was told first thing the next morning. Some lacky then interrogated me like i was some sort of criminal on probation, telling me it says in the small print of one of the dozens of little booklets they give you that you cant leave the city without telling the job centre, even if its just for a day... basically you need permission!!!!!


I had to then wait around for an hour to speak with another bigger lacky from "upstairs" who asked me the same questions, but in more detail, wanting to know everything! What road i was on, what time the traffic started, how long i was in traffic, all these stupid questions.

Now they are sending off some rubbish claim to doncaster for a "decision maker" to decide whether im entitled to job seekers allowance for the whole week!


Basically they are saying that i was not available for work, so i should lose £51 (a weeks dole money). I was only out of the city for a few bloody hours.

I was even asked by some stupid jobsworth if i did any job seeking activity while i was out of sheffield. lol It is just so pathetic!


Then i read the form the woman filled in to send to this decision maker... and the way she worded it all, it sounded like i was out of sheffield all week! It did not mention the fact i was only gone a few hours. I had to force her to put the time i was out of sheffield.


I am livid!

Just livid! I would not wish unemployment on anybody. Never mind not having any money, and a shrinking self worth... the worse part is having to deal with the job centre. Overall it took 4 people to handle this little "dispute" yesterday. 4 people! And none of them could make a decision using common sense, instead they have to send off information to some faceless person in doncaster to do their dirty work for them.


I asked her "how the hell am i suppose to eat and travel to job interviews etc.. if you take £51 off me... thats the only income i have!!!"

The heartless cow just shrugged and basically said its not her problem and she does not know how.


God, i hope the tories BUTCHER the public sector... or at least butcher the job centre. They dont need all those useless staff and all this box ticking, they need to start the whole benefits system from scratch.


RANT OVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I can't believe you have to inform them if you leave Sheffield, surely that's against your Human Rights? You are not a criminal, you don't have a tag that prevents you from leaving Sheffield. Disgusting to be fair and I share your feelings on it.

Better not tell them that i left sheffield several times the other week to attend job interviews in barnsley ey! shushhhh


I accept responsibility for missing my sign on appointment, it was my choice to go help with the shopping, but i should have been back with plenty of time, its the first time ive missed any appointment for job centre. and i did let them know that i could not make it, and its not like i lied... bloody wish i did lie now, wish i told them i was ill or something.


i told the woman who was interrogating me... i was available for work, i just dont bloody have any work to do! if i was working then i would not have left sheffield!


something else i learnt about yesterday... not only do they treat you like your on probation when it comes to your whereabouts... but they treat you like children / animals.

she told me about something they call "treats". basically a treat is where they will excuse you from signing on, due to illness or holiday or something. you get so many "treats" per year. so if i knew the rules about leaving sheffield i would have called them up and said "worse comes to worse if there is an accident or heavy traffic, i wont be able to make my sign this afternoon", they might have given me a "treat" for been a good good boy and telling them what i was doing.

I thought, well I know, that there was a scheme whereby one could get travelling costs to an interview reimbursed. No one in the Job Centre appeared to know it, a glance at the posters above their heads would have given them a clue however.

If you had phoned them to let them know and THEY told you to go in next day, whats their problem? I hate the job centre, my OH is unemployed at the mo and he hates going too.

God, i hope the tories BUTCHER the public sector... or at least butcher the job centre.

I don't think that you need to hope, its a certainty.

I can't believe you have to inform them if you leave Sheffield, surely that's against your Human Rights? You are not a criminal, you don't have a tag that prevents you from leaving Sheffield. Disgusting to be fair and I share your feelings on it.

That's because it isn't true. I'm afraid the OP is exaggerating to try and prove a point.

That's because it isn't true. I'm afraid the OP is exaggerating to try and prove a point.

im afraid i am not

here is the quote from the one of the many booklets they give you

YOU MUST TELL US IMMEDIATELY IF YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES CHANGE, FOR EXAMPLE, IF YOU OR YOUR PARTNER:

- CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS OR ARE GOING AWAY FROM HOME, EVEN IF IT IS FOR A DAY"

the staff can interpret that how ever they want. i would not class a 1 hours drive to manchester "going away from home for the day". i was only gone a few hours.

I had a similar experience and I was late because of a job interview. I even asked beforehand and they said it would be ok.

I had a similar experience and I was late because of a job interview. I even asked beforehand and they said it would be ok.

did they try stopping your payments like they are me? or did they just make a fuss then back down?

did they try stopping your payments like they are me? or did they just make a fuss then back down?

Just made a fuss. They mentioned the possibility of stopping payments but if I remember correctly it only took about 4 local staff to decide it wasn't a problem.

They had an issue with how long it had taken me to get back from the interview to the job centre.

I hated the whole experience and luckily it was only for a few months after university. I would be reluctant to get JSA in future unless it was absolutely necessary to survive.

They were also never very happy that I was looking for a particular type of job, the fact I had spent 6 years after school studying didn't seem to be important, I should still have applied for unskilled positions.

im afraid i am not

here is the quote from the one of the many booklets they give you



the staff can interpret that how ever they want. i would not class a 1 hours drive to manchester "going away from home for the day". i was only gone a few hours.

You missed your interview because you chose to do something else. Your entitlement to benefit depends on compliance with the regulations. i.e Attending as notified. So a decision has to be made to your entitlement because you didn't attend as required.

Despite all your pontificating about the intelligence of the Job Centre staff and their willingness to follow regulations. There's only one person responsible for your situation.

BTW....It isn't your Grandma

You missed your interview because you chose to do something else. Your entitlement to benefit depends on compliance with the regulations. i.e Attending as notified. So a decision has to be made to your entitlement because you didn't attend as required.

Despite all your pontificating about the intelligence of the Job Centre staff and their willingness to follow regulations. There's only one person responsible for your situation.

BTW....It isn't your Grandma


Right... lets just say the bus that i normally get to the job centre didnt turn up, and i miss my appointment? despite the fact i set off on time etc... as normal, i didnt control the fact the bus didnt turn up...

Just as with my situation i did not control the fact the motorway then the parkway were jammed. I set off with plenty of time to get back, it was unforeseen circumstances that stopped me getting to the job centre on time, not the fact i chose to go help an old lady.

You must work at the job centre or something. Idiot.


The problem the job centre have with me, the reason they are disputing my claim for JSA is not because i could not make my sign on time, its because i did not tell them i was "going away from home" for a few hours. That is the issue here.

It's training for when you get a job. I should imagine that an employer would be pretty cross if you didn't turn up for a meeting at a specified time as you were taking your granny shopping and got held up.

To the OP. Did you make it back to sheffield at such a time you could have made it into the job center to sign?.

I have been told time and time again that as long as i get to the job center on the day i am due to sign there not really bothered. Did they use the word treat?.

A "treat" is what is classed as a domestic emergency in which you cannot get to the job center. If your family member required your help and had no other means of gathering essentials for her wellbeing, health or otherwise then you may well be able to argue this was a domestic emergency and as such you are entitled to i think 4 of these per annum. During the winter weather i was stuck in stocksbridge and had no problems, and have done so in the past when a partner was sick.

She didn't have blonde hair and appear to be in her early 40's by any chance?.

From what i have been told by staff at the job center all stage 3 workers or those extended interviewer staff are facing the axe in the coming benefit shakeup and to be honest i won't shed a tear.

Yes there are those abusing the system, but the ones that are not are being abused by the system.

It's training for when you get a job. I should imagine that an employer would be pretty cross if you didn't turn up for a meeting at a specified time as you were taking your granny shopping and got held up.

Lol, Bait not taken.

Anyone with common sense can see what a stupid statement you have just made.


If i was working, I would have not been asked to go help out.

Lol, Bait not taken.

Anyone with common sense can see what a stupid statement you have just made.


If i was working, I would have not been asked to go help out.

So why were you asked to help out on the one day when you have something to do?

God, i hope the tories BUTCHER the public sector... or at least butcher the job centre. They dont need all those useless staff and all this box ticking, they need to start the whole benefits system from scratch.


RANT OVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yeah, then you won't get any benefits whatsoever :loopy:

To the OP. Did you make it back to sheffield at such a time you could have made it into the job center to sign?.

I have been told time and time again that as long as i get to the job center on the day i am due to sign there not really bothered. Did they use the word treat?.

A "treat" is what is classed as a domestic emergency in which you cannot get to the job center. If your family member required your help and had no other means of gathering essentials for her wellbeing, health or otherwise then you may well be able to argue this was a domestic emergency and as such you are entitled to i think 4 of these per annum. During the winter weather i was stuck in stocksbridge and had no problems, and have done so in the past when a partner was sick.

She didn't have blonde hair and appear to be in her early 40's by any chance?.

From what i have been told by staff at the job center all stage 3 workers or those extended interviewer staff are facing the axe in the coming benefit shakeup and to be honest i won't shed a tear.

Yes there are those abusing the system, but the ones that are not are being abused by the system.

I made it back to sheffield at half 4. Thats the time i was on the park way, and it was jammed up because of an accident with the motorbike.

I was heading towards the city centre to go to the job centre. My appointment was at 4:15. The job centre closes at 5, and the last person they see is at 4:45 (thats what i was told yesterday)

Yeah, then you won't get any benefits whatsoever :loopy:

I wont need them soon. I already have a job offer, i just cant accept it til i wait for the results of a test i did come back.

There will still be benefits for people who need them after the tories make their cuts. You will just apply for them in a different hopefully more efficient way.

So why were you asked to help out on the one day when you have something to do?

I would have had plenty of time to get back to Sheffield if it was not for heavy traffic. Its just one of those things.

I guess it was a gamble, accidents can happen on the roads.


But like i said to previous posters... the issue they have with me is the fact i left sheffield without telling them.

The past few months i have been unemployed and claiming job seekers allowance. I would not wish this fate on anybody.

The job centre is run by idiots, public sector pen pushers who should be in the dole queue themself as they would never get a job in the private sector.


I messed up the other day... I was suppose to sign on late afternoon, but i had to go up near manchester in the morning to help my grand mother do her shopping while other family members (who live closer, are on holiday).

I set off about 10ish and expected to be back well before my sign on time. Little did i know i would get stuck behind a load of traffic on one of the motorways, then again the park way was jammed in sheffield due to some motorbike been on fire in the road.


So i called the job centre and let them know why i could not come in, i was told just to come in the next day and sign and explain what happened.

I went in as i was told first thing the next morning. Some lacky then interrogated me like i was some sort of criminal on probation, telling me it says in the small print of one of the dozens of little booklets they give you that you cant leave the city without telling the job centre, even if its just for a day... basically you need permission!!!!!


I had to then wait around for an hour to speak with another bigger lacky from "upstairs" who asked me the same questions, but in more detail, wanting to know everything! What road i was on, what time the traffic started, how long i was in traffic, all these stupid questions.

Now they are sending off some rubbish claim to doncaster for a "decision maker" to decide whether im entitled to job seekers allowance for the whole week!


Basically they are saying that i was not available for work, so i should lose £51 (a weeks dole money). I was only out of the city for a few bloody hours.

I was even asked by some stupid jobsworth if i did any job seeking activity while i was out of sheffield. lol It is just so pathetic!


Then i read the form the woman filled in to send to this decision maker... and the way she worded it all, it sounded like i was out of sheffield all week! It did not mention the fact i was only gone a few hours. I had to force her to put the time i was out of sheffield.


I am livid!

Just livid! I would not wish unemployment on anybody. Never mind not having any money, and a shrinking self worth... the worse part is having to deal with the job centre. Overall it took 4 people to handle this little "dispute" yesterday. 4 people! And none of them could make a decision using common sense, instead they have to send off information to some faceless person in doncaster to do their dirty work for them.


I asked her "how the hell am i suppose to eat and travel to job interviews etc.. if you take £51 off me... thats the only income i have!!!"

The heartless cow just shrugged and basically said its not her problem and she does not know how.


God, i hope the tories BUTCHER the public sector... or at least butcher the job centre. They dont need all those useless staff and all this box ticking, they need to start the whole benefits system from scratch.


RANT OVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

That is just stupid and unfair. I too hope the Tories absolutely butcher and slaughter the public sector apart from the NHS. Most people who work in the job centre are useless and would be unemployable in the private sector.

no wonder you havnt got a job, if you cant make 'one' appointment every other week! Try work for a living then you know what hard work really means

I had the degrading issue of being out of work for sometime in the 80s when Thatcher was in power. So it hasnt changed much since then it seems

I'm on jobseekers and NOWHERE does it say you need to inform them if you leave the city for a day. Stop exaggerating.

And if the Tories botch up the public sector then NO-ONE would get benefits at all. Even those who are geniunely disabled and can't work, or those who are geniunely looking for work (like me and, I'm guessing, yourself). Be careful what you wish for.

And I agree with victoria22 for the first half at least...

I would have had plenty of time to get back to Sheffield if it was not for heavy traffic. Its just one of those things.

I guess it was a gamble, accidents can happen on the roads.


But like i said to previous posters... the issue they have with me is the fact i left sheffield without telling them.

One that didn't pay off.

An hour every fortnight to go and sign on and you can't even manage it.

Right... lets just say the bus that i normally get to the job centre didnt turn up, and i miss my appointment? despite the fact i set off on time etc... as normal, i didnt control the fact the bus didnt turn up...

Just as with my situation i did not control the fact the motorway then the parkway were jammed. I set off with plenty of time to get back, it was unforeseen circumstances that stopped me getting to the job centre on time, not the fact i chose to go help an old lady.

You must work at the job centre or something. Idiot.


The problem the job centre have with me, the reason they are disputing my claim for JSA is not because i could not make my sign on time, its because i did not tell them i was "going away from home" for a few hours. That is the issue here.

(My Bold) Issue is you didn't turn up as required......helping an old lady or not. The reason they asked where you were, what you were doing is so you could try and give a reason for the decision maker.

Oh and thanks for the snap judgement on my IQ......Shame you couldn't focus your own intelligence in arranging your obligations.

no wonder you havnt got a job, if you cant make 'one' appointment every other week! Try work for a living then you know what hard work really means

Ever thought he may have had a job before?

I'm on jobseekers and NOWHERE does it say you need to inform them if you leave the city for a day. Stop exaggerating.


And I agree with victoria22.

I'm pretty sure he just took a direct quote from one of the leaflets, which states he has to inform them when he leaves Sheffield for the day.

I sympathise with the OP on this one. It was a bad choice to make and a series of unfortunate events followed. The lack of common sense in these places is appalling and I sincerely hope that those who are genuinely slating him for helping out a needy relative never find themselves sat in the hell hole that is the Jobcentre!

People make mistakes, misjudge situations and s*** happens and I'm damn sure that you lot have made your fair share in your time too.

It's hard enough having to be in the position to have to sign on in the first place without fools who wouldn't have jobs if it wasn't for these places existing in the first place, to tell you that you can't have your money when you are genuinely trying to find work and need it to live on.

no wonder you havnt got a job, if you cant make 'one' appointment every other week! Try work for a living then you know what hard work really means

lol i have had many jobs before. my last job i was self employed, for nearly 2 years before work seemed to dry up. at that point i spent weeks trying to drum up more business without success, and have been forced to sign on while looking for a job, the sector where i used to work will not pick up for some time.


as for making 1 appointment every other week. i have never failed before and it was circumstances beyond my control that caused me to miss this one.


but it is nice of you to assume just because i claim JSA that i have never had a job and dont know what its like to work for a living. not that i would call £51 per week a "living". more like "survival".

i am not entitled to any other benefits that some people are lucky enough to recieve.

I'm on jobseekers and NOWHERE does it say you need to inform them if you leave the city for a day. Stop exaggerating.

And if the Tories botch up the public sector then NO-ONE would get benefits at all. Even those who are geniunely disabled and can't work, or those who are geniunely looking for work (like me and, I'm guessing, yourself). Be careful what you wish for.

And I agree with victoria22 for the first half at least...

you need to take a look at the inside of the little booklet you have which tells you what time you need to sign on and on what day...

you will find the quote i published early that clearly says you have to inform the job centre if you or your partner are "going away from home, even for one day".

so no my friend, i am not exaggerating, nor am i making it up. go read your own booklet, its there in black and white.

(My Bold) Issue is you didn't turn up as required......helping an old lady or not. The reason they asked where you were, what you were doing is so you could try and give a reason for the decision maker.

Oh and thanks for the snap judgement on my IQ......Shame you couldn't focus your own intelligence in arranging your obligations.


Yes your right i should not have used the word idiot. Sorry. I have no idea what your IQ is, nor do i care. You just appear to be frustratingly biased with a lack of common sense or sympathy to what is a bad situation.

You have a lot in common with the staff at the job centre, and many other government departments.


And your right in saying i did not turn up "as required", but i did let them know i could not make it and why i could not make it and they are fine with that. Its not the issue. I was due to sign on just after 4pm on wednesday. i called them the second i knew it would be impossible for me to make it.

I then turned up at 9am the next morning to sign on, and then they took issue with the fact i left sheffield without telling them, and now want to stop me a weeks JSA.

It has nothin to do with the fact i could not make the appointment. It is all down to me leaving sheffield.

If the stop your dole go to your local unemployed workers centre your nearest one is in chesterfield
they provide these services

Benefit checks
Completion of claim forms
Liaising with DWP/Inland Revenue/Local Authorities
Representation at benefit tribunal
Take up campaigns
On-site redundancy advice
contact details
Tel: 01246 231441
Email: info@duwc.org.uk
Derbyshire Unemployed Workers' Centres
70 Saltergate,
Chesterfield,
S40 1JR

With the work situation being so precarious as it is at the moment I don't know how anyone can be so arragant as to think that unemployment will never affect them.
I remember a similiar occasion to the OP's when after a long sit in the jobcentre, I came out, went into a phone box to phone my oh to tell him I wouldn't be getting any dole money at that time and although normally a very placid easy going sort of person, I could have willingly and easily put my fist through every single pane of glass in there.
This was at least 20 years ago now but flippin eck, nothing changes it seems.
Good luck to the op, hope something comes up soon and to the knockers, don't be too complacent, it could happen to you.

Personally I think they do right. Not saying you are, but so many people seem to cheat the system that they have to start getting stricter.

To me, it seems a little odd that you have an appointment with the job centre and so decide to go off to Manchester for the day. You say the relatives are on holiday, why didn't you arrange to help her with her shopping on another day? You knew the relatives were going on holiday, if they couldn't make it for some unexpected reason and your gran was in danger then I'd understand it.

If you can't get to an appointment once every 2 weeks then they do right to consider whether you are entitled to receive the money.

If the stop your dole go to your local unemployed workers centre your nearest one is in chesterfield
they provide these services

Benefit checks
Completion of claim forms
Liaising with DWP/Inland Revenue/Local Authorities
Representation at benefit tribunal
Take up campaigns
On-site redundancy advice
contact details
Tel: 01246 231441
Email: info@duwc.org.uk
Derbyshire Unemployed Workers' Centres
70 Saltergate,
Chesterfield,
S40 1JR

thanks for that information, i will save it now.

Personally I think they do right. Not saying you are, but so many people seem to cheat the system that they have to start getting stricter.

To me, it seems a little odd that you have an appointment with the job centre and so decide to go off to Manchester for the day. You say the relatives are on holiday, why didn't you arrange to help her with her shopping on another day? You knew the relatives were going on holiday, if they couldn't make it for some unexpected reason and your gran was in danger then I'd understand it.

If you can't get to an appointment once every 2 weeks then they do right to consider whether you are entitled to receive the money.

Ok i will repeat it again...

THE SITUATION HAS GOT NOTHING AT ALL TO DO WITH THE FACT I COULD NOT MAKE MY SIGN ON TIME. IT HAPPENS!!! THINGS COME UP!!!

The issue here is that i "went away from home" without telling the job centre. That is what they are persuing here.

They are basically saying that because i went to manchester for a few hours without telling them.. that i was not available for work from the 10th of June til the 16th of June.

That is what they are saying, they are trying to stop my payment for the above reason.

I REPEAT IT HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH THE FACT I COULD NOT MAKE MY USUAL SIGN ON APPOINTMENT.

I am not cheating the system, i am a genuine claimant, who is been subjected to pathetic treatment by a bunch of pen pushing nobodies who are lucky to be in a job at all.

Write to your MP, that usually gets their bowels moving.

Write to your MP, that usually gets their bowels moving.

I might just do that if they do actually stop my payments.

But the problem is this is sheffield. And my MP is a labour MP.


The system that is in place right now, is a labour party creation. I doubt he will have much sympathy. Champange socialists never do.

Ever thought he may have had a job before?

maybe its the reason why he hasnt got one now:hihi:

I might just do that if they do actually stop my payments.

But the problem is this is sheffield. And my MP is a labour MP.


The system that is in place right now, is a labour party creation. I doubt he will have much sympathy. Champange socialists never do.

No problemo, it will be some lackey that replies, regardless of which party it is. You will get some movement, as will the Department concerned.

Ok i will repeat it again...

THE SITUATION HAS GOT NOTHING AT ALL TO DO WITH THE FACT I COULD NOT MAKE MY SIGN ON TIME. IT HAPPENS!!! THINGS COME UP!!!

The issue here is that i "went away from home" without telling the job centre. That is what they are persuing here.

They are basically saying that because i went to manchester for a few hours without telling them.. that i was not available for work from the 10th of June til the 16th of June.

That is what they are saying, they are trying to stop my payment for the above reason.

I REPEAT IT HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH THE FACT I COULD NOT MAKE MY USUAL SIGN ON APPOINTMENT.

I am not cheating the system, i am a genuine claimant, who is been subjected to pathetic treatment by a bunch of pen pushing nobodies who are lucky to be in a job at all.

I can see why you are annoyed, and yes that does seem overkill for this particular case. However, I can see why they do it and the fact remains that if you hadn't have done what you did there wouldn't be an issue.

I can see why you are annoyed, and yes that does seem overkill for this particular case. However, I can see why they do it and the fact remains that if you hadn't have done what you did there wouldn't be an issue.

I know why they have to be strict, but there has to be some level of common sense.

Why does it take 4 people to deal with this at the job centre, but none of them can make a decision?

They have to send the details off to someone in doncaster to do the thinking for them.


I think the rule is pathetic. Nobody should have to tell the job centre if they leave the city for a few hours. I can understand why you would tell them if you were going on holiday or something for multiple days. Because while your away you MIGHT not be looking for jobs. But if you just go away for a few hours, i have spent more time been dragged around meadowhall by the wife than i did going to manchester the other days.

But i dont have to tell them that i went to meadowhall do i? Next they will want to know when the unemployed take a dump.

What i don't get is why are you blowing a gasket over something you yourself are quoting. Do i think it's overkill.....yes, Do i think you should be left alone.....yes. However them is the rules and you fell for the oldest trick in the book...being honest with the job center. They will likely bend you over a barrel now.

Meanwhile slack alice is claiming for her 30 kids, holidays to ibiza and brand new jag.....welcome to the DWP, we hope you enjoy your stay!

I know why they have to be strict, but there has to be some level of common sense.

Why does it take 4 people to deal with this at the job centre, but none of them can make a decision?

They have to send the details off to someone in doncaster to do the thinking for them.


I think the rule is pathetic. Nobody should have to tell the job centre if they leave the city for a few hours. I can understand why you would tell them if you were going on holiday or something for multiple days. Because while your away you MIGHT not be looking for jobs. But if you just go away for a few hours, i have spent more time been dragged around meadowhall by the wife than i did going to manchester the other days.

But i dont have to tell them that i went to meadowhall do i? Next they will want to know when the unemployed take a dump.

I think what you have experience is the exact reason why so many people can cheat the system and its in complete disarray. A simple thing such as missing an appointment should be dealt with in a few minutes (warning for the first missed appointment and then stopping the money thereafter). No doubt they have to conduct risk assessments and work out whether signing a piece of paper could potentially lead to a wrist injury in later life...

I know why they have to be strict, but there has to be some level of common sense.

Why does it take 4 people to deal with this at the job centre, but none of them can make a decision?

They have to send the details off to someone in doncaster to do the thinking for them.


I think the rule is pathetic. Nobody should have to tell the job centre if they leave the city for a few hours. I can understand why you would tell them if you were going on holiday or something for multiple days. Because while your away you MIGHT not be looking for jobs. But if you just go away for a few hours, i have spent more time been dragged around meadowhall by the wife than i did going to manchester the other days.

But i dont have to tell them that i went to meadowhall do i? Next they will want to know when the unemployed take a dump.

To which your reply should be....i deal with a little more **** every other.(enter your sign on day here)

I can't believe you have to inform them if you leave Sheffield, surely that's against your Human Rights? You are not a criminal, you don't have a tag that prevents you from leaving Sheffield. Disgusting to be fair and I share your feelings on it.

No you have to sell your soul to them in exchange for the generous amout of money they pay you each week.:hihi:

I hated the whole experience and luckily it was only for a few months after university. I would be reluctant to get JSA in future unless it was absolutely necessary to survive.
I think this is the idea; make claiming JSA as unpleasant as possible so that you wont bother if you can survive without, regardless of entitlement.

What annoys me is just how unprofessional some of the staff are. When interviewed for my claim, they seemed to think it was hilarious that I had a PhD and was looking for work. They filled in the dole card with 'Dr' as my title, and a fortnight later when I signed and handed my card over at the front desk, the bloke dealing with me went over to his work colleagues, showed them my card, and had a right good laugh about it, before calling me over for the patronising banter delivered during the signing ritual. During one of the many times I have been sat waiting for one of their appointments (their time-keeping is always out, strangely enough), I witnessed an 'advisor' use the words 'chuffin hell', and later on, 'f***ing hell', in front of a claimant. Once the claimant had gone, the same 'advisor' stuffed her face with crisps and made personal calls about ignoring a text she had just sent as it wasn't intended for that person, etc....all in an open-plan office.


They were also never very happy that I was looking for a particular type of job, the fact I had spent 6 years after school studying didn't seem to be important, I should still have applied for unskilled positions.

They seem to think it's a great use of resources to mail out job adverts for wholly inappropriate jobs (several on the same day, but never in the same envelope). I was happy to try anything to get off JSA, but despite the dole saying these jobs were a good match with my skills and abilities, I didn't receive a single reply about the positions that needed 1 GCSE max :rolleyes:.

The worst thing is that genuine claimants can expect hassle and hostility when making a claim, but those that are abusing the system seem to be left alone to do so in peace. :huh:

I think a lot of people would feel hard done by if they were in the same situation as you. But wishing ill on the entirety of the public sector workforce based on your personal experience seems similarly heartless.

There is this veiw that anyone who works in the public service are useless & idle - forgetting that the banks royally <removed> up causing the credit crunch. Only to be bailed out by the public sector....

I think this is the idea; make claiming JSA as unpleasant as possible so that you wont bother if you can survive without, regardless of entitlement.

What annoys me is just how unprofessional some of the staff are. When interviewed for my claim, they seemed to think it was hilarious that I had a PhD and was looking for work. They filled in the dole card with 'Dr' as my title, and a fortnight later when I signed and handed my card over at the front desk, the bloke dealing with me went over to his work colleagues, showed them my card, and had a right good laugh about it, before calling me over for the patronising banter delivered during the signing ritual. During one of the many times I have been sat waiting for one of their appointments (their time-keeping is always out, strangely enough), I witnessed an 'advisor' use the words 'chuffin hell', and later on, 'f***ing hell', in front of a claimant. Once the claimant had gone, the same 'advisor' stuffed her face with crisps and made personal calls about ignoring a text she had just sent as it wasn't intended for that person, etc....all in an open-plan office.




They seem to think it's a great use of resources to mail out job adverts for wholly inappropriate jobs (several on the same day, but never in the same envelope). I was happy to try anything to get off JSA, but despite the dole saying these jobs were a good match with my skills and abilities, I didn't receive a single reply about the positions that needed 1 GCSE max :rolleyes:.

The worst thing is that genuine claimants can expect hassle and hostility when making a claim, but those that are abusing the system seem to be left alone to do so in peace. :huh:

I can totally relate to what you say about their attitude.

I have not been signing long and on numerous occasions i have been sat waiting for up to an hour just to sign on.

Meanwhile you will see numerous staff talking among themself or just fidling with their computers, not really doing much at all.


Sorry to hear about the situation you are / were in. I hope you find a job that will make the most of your education. Anything has gotta be better than working one of the labour party "non-jobs" like the pen pushers at the job centre do.

Id rather clean toliets! Least you would be working in the productive part of the econemy.


In my opinion only the emergency services are the important part of the public sector. The NHS is worth every penny (but it needs to get rid of all those middle managers). The police are good, the fire service do a great job... and the military make the best out of bad situations.

Oh teachers too, money well spent on teachers.

I think a lot of people would feel hard done by if they were in the same situation as you. But wishing ill on the entirety of the public sector workforce (excluding the NHS) based on your personal experience seems similarly heartless.

The banks royally <removed> up causing the credit crunch, but I don't suppose for one minute that you'd be calling for the mass socialisation of capital and the nationalisation of the private sector.


I dont buy the whole "banks messed up" mantra.

Sure the way the stock market behaves in general did contribute to the bubble that burst.

But it is successive governments which have promoted debt. Whether that debt was the artificial house price bubble, or credit cards etc...

Greed of the majority is what brought the world to the situation we have now.

To just repeat over and over that the banks cocked up is pointless, they played their part, but we all did. The city of london contributes greatly to our econemy. In fact i think we can safely say without the city our country would now be in pieces, thanks to the tories and labour removing all of our manufacturing base to the third world... while at the same time letting the third world population flood our country, making the jobs that are left here even harder to get.

I sympathise with the OP on this one. It was a bad choice to make and a series of unfortunate events followed. The lack of common sense in these places is appalling and I sincerely hope that those who are genuinely slating him for helping out a needy relative never find themselves sat in the hell hole that is the Jobcentre!

People make mistakes, misjudge situations and s*** happens and I'm damn sure that you lot have made your fair share in your time too.

It's hard enough having to be in the position to have to sign on in the first place without fools who wouldn't have jobs if it wasn't for these places existing in the first place, to tell you that you can't have your money when you are genuinely trying to find work and need it to live on.

Totally agree with this.

ben280489, just ignore the idiots on this thread. They are so far up their own bumholes that they can't see it for what it is. Like straylight said, s*** happens; you can plan appropriately for a situation but you can't control the world around you and unexpected events getting in your way.

I heard what you said about if you were working you wouldn't have been asked for the favour, it seems many posters either missed that point or just ignored it. I hate the jobcentre, they take the p*** and you have to give them a good kick up the arse for them to get anything done. They don't give a toss about your welfare and don't treat you like a real person.

Totally agree with this.

ben280489, just ignore the idiots on this thread. They are so far up their own bumholes that they can't see it for what it is. Like straylight said, s*** happens; you can plan appropriately for a situation but you can't control the world around you and unexpected events getting in your way.

I heard what you said about if you were working you wouldn't have been asked for the favour, it seems many posters either missed that point or just ignored it. I hate the jobcentre, they take the p*** and you have to give them a good kick up the arse for them to get anything done. They don't give a toss about your welfare and don't treat you like a real person.

Thank you for contributing with this perfectly rational and reasonable response.

I think some people will just take any chance to bash the unemployed.


They seem to think that if you dont have a job, then you have an easy life on benefits, with your widescreen tv and all that. But its not the case for most people.


I would be interested to hear if anyone else has had any dealings with these job centre "decision makers".

I have spoke to a few people and it seems what ever the case these faceless decision makers will decide in favor of the job centre. In other words they are just there to make it seem like its a fair decision, when really its just a way to excuse the staff in the job centre from any responsibility.

I hope some people have had good experiences with decision makers. I hope they had something decided in their favor.


I will try and remember to update this thread when i get a letter at the end of next week telling me if im going to lose any payments.

you should be available to sign on. no signy equals no moneyscrounge:D

That sounds tough but if I was late for work because I went shopping I don’t think my boss would be happy and I certainly wouldn’t get paid.

That sounds tough but if I was late for work because I went shopping I don’t think my boss would be happy and I certainly wouldn’t get paid.

Well there is a huge difference between a job and signing on the dole.

Signing on is not a job. It is nothing like a job. More like a doctors appointment, than a job.

With a job you have a routine... you know what traffic will be like, how long it will take you to get there etc., it isn't relevant to this thread so everyone who is using that as an excuse to have a go at the OP is pathetic.

Personally i think a employer would be a lot more sympathetic than the job centre have been if you were 30 minutes late to work because of traffic and accidents beyond your control.

Sure they might not start paying you til you start working, and that is fair. But most people have the common sense to realise that **** happens you cant control.

With a job you have a routine... you know what traffic will be like, how long it will take you to get there etc., it isn't relevant to this thread so everyone who is using that as an excuse to have a go at the OP is pathetic.

hehe for some reason the line between the post and your signature didn't come up, was gonna ask what the bleep sharon stone has to do with it :D

Well there is a huge difference between a job and signing on the dole.

Signing on is not a job. It is nothing like a job. More like a doctors appointment, than a job.

When I started work I signed a contract and as I remember when you sign on you sign a jobseekers agreement.



The definition of being “available for employment” is:

1.Not having any work or executing any other activities or plans in particular pre-planned (exceptions can include going to court, hospital, doctor or dentist) that would render you unable to work; being in custody normally makes you unavailable for work regardless of the time, duration of stay or whether you are released without charge (i.e. being innocent).

2.Not having a disability or illness (including short term sickness) that would prevent you from working; there is an easement of two periods of up to 2 weeks each that are not consecutive, in a 12 month period.

3.Being able to accept an offer of instantaneous employment immediately (even theoretically) or being able to commence employment within the agreed timescales on your Jobseekers Agreement (JSAg) – whatever is highest

When I started work I signed a contract and as I remember when you sign on you sign a jobseekers agreement.

Nobody offers you a job and expects you to start work within a few hours!

So if i did get a call saying "we would like to offer you a job", the odds are they would then ask you when you can start work (you might have to work notice at another job etc...)

Just because i did something productive for a few hours instead of sitting around on my arse all day wasting time just waiting for a magic phone call that is going to tell me to come quick and start working.

you should have gone to manchester on another day not like your doing much are you

you should have gone to manchester on another day not like your doing much are you

Does not matter when i went to manchester, the issue is that i didnt tell the job centre i was leaving sheffield.

If they ever found out another way (if i went on a non sign on day) then i would still be in this situation.


The only reason they found out this time is because of my honesty. I could have easily lied and said i was ill or something. But im not a liar. I didnt think it would be an issue.

Another turned into a bash the unemployed thread

I am on JSA so must be classed as a scrounger even though it was 1975 when i last signed on 34 yrs two jobs 55 on scrapheap

So let the insults roll

Another turned into a bash the unemployed thread

I am on JSA so must be classed as a scrounger even though it was 1975 when i last signed on 34 yrs two jobs 55 on scrapheap

So let the insults roll

Hope you find a job mate:thumbsup:

I am only in my early 20s, but i am shocked at how employers seem to treat the more mature worker.

You should get down to BnQ, they seem to be the only ones who like to hire older workers with wisdom and experience.

Its a perfect system. Get the experienced workers to come in and kick the young guys into touch, sharing the knowledge and wisdom.

Instead most employers seem to be totally writing off older workers. It makes no sense to me seen as older workers generally have a better attitude towards work. They will work harder, be more reliable etc...

On the waiting list B&Q Sainsburys,Asda,Morrisons,
Still a scrounger on forums

Does not matter when i went to manchester, the issue is that i didnt tell the job centre i was leaving sheffield.

If they ever found out another way (if i went on a non sign on day) then i would still be in this situation.


The only reason they found out this time is because of my honesty. I could have easily lied and said i was ill or something. But im not a liar. I didnt think it would be an issue.

It’s got nothing to do with leaving Sheffield it’s about the fact that you didn’t sign on at the designated time.

My brother was told going for an interview wasn’t a good enough reason to miss signing on …………… good job he got the job he went to the interview for. :hihi:

It’s got nothing to do with leaving Sheffield it’s about the fact that you didn’t sign on at the designated time.

My brother was told going for an interview wasn’t a good enough reason to miss signing on …………… good job he got the job he went to the interview for. :hihi:

Well im not even going to respond properly to this.

You clearly havnt read my other posts.

Another turned into a bash the unemployed thread

I am on JSA so must be classed as a scrounger even though it was 1975 when i last signed on 34 yrs two jobs 55 on scrapheap

So let the insults roll

Chin up mi-owd, been there done that, got the T-shirt, I was made redundant after 30 years with the same employer ………… 15 months doing agency work before getting a “proper” job.

You clearly havnt read my other posts.



Ah but I have :hihi:, if you sign on at the right time they couldn’t give a monkeys about your movements, not being in Sheffield is a red herring, if you have a mobile you are contactable wherever you are.

Ah but I have :hihi:, if you sign on at the right time they couldn’t give a monkeys about your movements, not being in Sheffield is a red herring, if you have a mobile you are contactable wherever you are.

Then why are they not disputing my claim because i couldnt make my appointment?

One that didn't pay off.

An hour every fortnight to go and sign on and you can't even manage it.

Get your tallons out of him keyboard warrior, you do like having your little pop at folk don't you?

My only contact with these jobsworths was circa three years ago when I was applying for my bus pass. Silly me thought that my passport and driving licence would prove who I was, and how old I was, wrong.

I had to go to the job centre to have my birth certificate certifield by a clown who considered himself to be very important. He had a good look at me, thoroughly examined my birth certificate and then disappeared for what appeared to be an eternity before handing it back to me duly certified, I reckon that he had been looking for someone who could read and write. :loopy:

I think this is the idea; make claiming JSA as unpleasant as possible so that you wont bother if you can survive without, regardless of entitlement.


Exactly. However, the JC are very selective about who they are unpleasant to. Recently, I went through this process and saw the most remarkable sights. People drugged up or drunk were treated in a most friendly way (when, by rights it is obvious that they will never, ever get a job, so shouldn't get benefits). So the OP risks losing his JSA. Yet these people don't. Fair, eh?

Normally, the public sector parasites (that's where there's going to be trouble, if these non-productive people keep getting better pay, perks, hours etc. rather than the people who actually do something) bleat on about 'doing a difficult job for very little pay'. Whatever the JC staff are on, it's too much. Difficult? The place is swarming with 'bouncers' who look like rejects from the extras on Dads Army.

So what, exactly, does the JC do? Springing up in town are 'providers' which the JC farm (certain) people out to. We've got the lamentable A4e - 'Improving people's lives'. Sure. The Shaw 'Trust', Remploy - 'Ability not disability' and Wise 'Ability' (see a pattern emerging here?).

As the JC delights in sending - as I say, certain - people to their mates in these little quangoes, don't they realise that their own positions will become untenable? Let's hope so.

Ben, don't get too wound up and stop giving so much personal information out on this forum. Certain posters - who have very little else in their lives - will chip away with their comments (using their one free hand).

Get your tallons out of him keyboard warrior, you do like having your little pop at folk don't you?

Theres a few on here like that crooksey ..arnt there?....dont see what they get out of it myself:confused:

[QUOTE=ben280489;6371356]The past few months i have been unemployed and claiming job seekers allowance. I would not wish this fate on anybody.

Ben - good luck with your future dealings with the job centre. Just make sure you have their phone number available in case you have 'unforseen circumstances' again that prevent you from meeting the appointment.

And for all of you that have 'bashed' Ben for not having a job, be very thankful that you aren't in his position. It's so easy to take on a superior attitute when people don't meet your own exacting standards. Try 'walking a mile' in someone else's shoes for a change and have a little compassion and empathy for those around you. And remember - there will be more job cuts to follow, so you never know where or when that axe will fall.

[QUOTE=ben280489;6371356]The past few months i have been unemployed and claiming job seekers allowance. I would not wish this fate on anybody.

Ben - good luck with your future dealings with the job centre. Just make sure you have their phone number available in case you have 'unforseen circumstances' again that prevent you from meeting the appointment.

And for all of you that have 'bashed' Ben for not having a job, be very thankful that you aren't in his position. It's so easy to take on a superior attitute when people don't meet your own exacting standards. Try 'walking a mile' in someone else's shoes for a change and have a little compassion and empathy for those around you. And remember - there will be more job cuts to follow, so you never know where or when that axe will fall.

Exactly! There but for the grace of God and all that........

if they offer you a job, tell them to get stuffed

What is it with all these working people who get all high and mighty when it comes to people on benefits?
Get a <removed> life, just because you have a job doesn't make you better than someone who hasn't.
By the way I have a business and employ 2 people but don't go round slagging people off who havn't got a job.

is it just me or does it come accross that most people on here think manchester is as far as scotland or something, its the next county for gods sake not flipping highlands of scotland, i bet if a employer did phone asking him to come for a interview it would take 2 hours max to do so, the issue was traffic not the location. what was he meant to do? drive down the hard shoulder? fly? call for a emergency police escort?
doing something other than sitting on his ass waiting for a job to appear is not productive. keeping him self busy is!

i had a complete pyscotic manic episode (i have bipolar) anyway i was put on strong seditives which had me sleeping for 23 hours of the day and dribbling and trying to eat for the other hour, at this point my husband was getting carers alowance for me and i get the highest rate of care on dla, the job centre sent a letter demanding i attend a interview to discuss getting back to work (would of been great if i could of even remembered my own name) they tried to stop our money which caused a huge up roar with my doctor, social worker, mental health nurse, pyschologist, physciatrist and we even had david blunkett involved.
alot of the job centre dont know there ass from there elbows and comman sense doesn't even come into it.

what was he meant to do? drive down the hard shoulder? fly? call for a emergency police escort?
.

How about not going to Manchester on his signing on day. :thumbsup:

How about not going to Manchester on his signing on day. :thumbsup:

the point is he didn't miss the appointment because he went on a jolly he missed it because of a run in bad luck with traffic, it could of been a case of getting the bus and it broke down, or a road accident that left him in grid-lock, oh no wait there was a motor bike on fire in the road in sheffield not manchester :suspect:

the point is he didn't miss the appointment because he went on a jolly he missed it because of a run in bad luck with traffic, it could of been a case of getting the bus and it broke down, or a road accident that left him in grid-lock, oh no wait there was a motor bike on fire in the road in sheffield not manchester :suspect:

As I said from the start the trip was a red herring it all come down to the missed slot regardless of how it happened.

As I said from the start the trip was a red herring it all come down to the missed slot regardless of how it happened.

the post is about how the job centre is run and how it treats people.

and yes your right, if i made the appointment (if i did not go to manchester, or i did not hit traffic)... then they would never have known i left sheffield, and would not be using this to try stopping my money.


but i am not a prisoner, if i want to go to manchester on my sign day, i can do so. i had plenty of time to get back, unless of course i hit 2 loads of heavy traffic, firstly on the motorway, then on sheffield parkway.

the post is about how the job centre is run and how it treats people.

Exactly, well said Ben. Those who are criticising you must be fortunate enough to have had no dealings with people at the job centre, or are the 'untouchables' who get away with all sorts of dishonest behaviour.

the post is about how the job centre is run and how it treats people.

So how shocking was it?

You failed to attend your appointment

A) They asked you why

B) You gave your reasons why

C) They sent your evidence to an independent decision maker...(please note 'independent') for a decision on your entitlement.

So how shocking was it?

You failed to attend your appointment

A) They asked you why

B) You gave your reasons why

C) They sent your evidence to an independent decision maker...(please note 'independent') for a decision on your entitlement.

You just cannot seem to grasp what i am saying.

The issue they have with me has nothing to do with my sign on appointment.

The problem they have is that i left sheffield without letting them know where i was going. They want to know if you leave sheffield regardless of whether its your sign on day or not.

They are questioning whether i was available for work for the period between the 10th of june and the 16th of june.

All because i went to manchester for a few hours without telling them first.


That is the issue!

It has nothing to do with my appointment, people miss appointments all the time, things happen, things come up. People cant make it, sometimes its their own fault, other times it is due to things they cannot control.

I signed on at 9am the following morning. There was no problem with that.


Just get that into your head please. They are not disputing me because i signed on late, they are disputing me because i left sheffield and that means i was not available for work between 10.30am and 4.30pm on wednesday the 16th of june.

They are not disputing me because i signed on late, they are disputing me because i left sheffield and that means i was not available for work between 10.30am and 4.30pm on wednesday the 16th of june.

Because that's the reason you gave for failing to attend. the same action would have been taken if you'd been for example arrested, drunk in a pub or sunbathing in a park.

Does not matter when i went to manchester, the issue is that i didnt tell the job centre i was leaving sheffield.

If they ever found out another way (if i went on a non sign on day) then i would still be in this situation.


The only reason they found out this time is because of my honesty. I could have easily lied and said i was ill or something. But im not a liar. I didnt think it would be an issue.

people go to spain for a week and never get caught ;)

people go to spain for a week and never get caught ;)

talking from experience?

talking from experience?

nope read on a thread from a few days ago.

I've worked since leaving school

You just cannot seem to grasp what i am saying.

The issue they have with me has nothing to do with my sign on appointment.

Yes it does.

The problem they have is that i left sheffield without letting them know where i was going. They want to know if you leave sheffield regardless of whether its your sign on day or not.

No it's not, and no they don't.

They are questioning whether i was available for work for the period between the 10th of june and the 16th of june.

All because i went to manchester for a few hours without telling them first.

Because if an appointment is missed without good cause, benefit can be suspended for that 'benefit week', now. Nothing to do with where you were whatsoever.

That is the issue!

No it isn't. What you don't get is that the point is that you missed an interview. It doesn't matter why, where, with whom or doing what. If it is not deemed as being in 'good cause', then a sanction can be applied.

It has nothing to do with my appointment, people miss appointments all the time, things happen, things come up. People cant make it, sometimes its their own fault, other times it is due to things they cannot control.

I signed on at 9am the following morning. There was no problem with that.

Just get that into your head please. They are not disputing me because i signed on late, they are disputing me because i left sheffield and that means i was not available for work between 10.30am and 4.30pm on wednesday the 16th of june.

Nope. It has absolutely everything to do with the fact that you missed your interview/appointment/signing on day.

Absolutely everything.

i really cant be bothered with this post anymore.

ive said all i need to say.

i really cant be bothered with this post anymore.

ive said all i need to say.

And you're completely wrong.

And you're completely wrong.

but nobody can argue with you because your a moderator and you will just close the post or delete the thread.

anyway

this is my last post on the thread and most likely the forum.


anyone who has had dealings with the job centre will know what i am on about. and if you go get the booklets yourself and read them. you will see i am right.

arguing with you or anyone else about this is a waste of time. the "decision maker" will make his decision regardless of what i do or say. the odds are they will rule in my favor, if they have an ounce of common sense.


thanks to all those who showed support and gave advise / contact information.

as for all the people who just like to bash the unemployed. i hope you dont find yourself in the same situation as millions of people currently are in.

Obviously happyhippy the only thing that is going to convince you that to be unemployed is to be treated like sh*t is firsthand experience.

You never know, the cuts cometh...

but nobody can argue with you because your a moderator and you will just close the post or delete the thread.

anyway

this is my last post on the thread and most likely the forum.


anyone who has had dealings with the job centre will know what i am on about. and if you go get the booklets yourself and read them. you will see i am right.

arguing with you or anyone else about this is a waste of time. the "decision maker" will make his decision regardless of what i do or say. the odds are they will rule in my favor, if they have an ounce of common sense.


thanks to all those who showed support and gave advise / contact information.

as for all the people who just like to bash the unemployed. i hope you dont find yourself in the same situation as millions of people currently are in.

hope you get this resolved, and good luck in finding suitable employment :)

but nobody can argue with you because your a moderator and you will just close the post or delete the thread.

anyway

this is my last post on the thread and most likely the forum.

Not at all Ben. I speak from professional experience. What you have said simply isn't true. You do not have to inform Jobcentre Plus of when you leave your home town/city/village/tent.

anyone who has had dealings with the job centre will know what i am on about. and if you go get the booklets yourself and read them. you will see i am right.

No. Oddly, I used to work in the team which deals with the national publication of publicity material for Jobcentre Plus. You are wrong.

arguing with you or anyone else about this is a waste of time. the "decision maker" will make his decision regardless of what i do or say. the odds are they will rule in my favor, if they have an ounce of common sense.

I reckon you're right, especially as you called the office concerned.

thanks to all those who showed support and gave advise / contact information.

as for all the people who just like to bash the unemployed. i hope you dont find yourself in the same situation as millions of people currently are in.

When did I bash the unemployed? I spend most of my time sticking up for them, ironically. You are, however, fundamentally wrong in your assertion about leaving your home town.

Obviously happyhippy the only thing that is going to convince you that to be unemployed is to be treated like sh*t is firsthand experience.

You never know, the cuts cometh...

Who says I work there? Who says I haven't been unemployed in my adult life?

Who says I work there? Who says I haven't been unemployed in my adult life?

Have you been unemployed recently?

Happy it does say if you are going away from home for even a day then you need to inform the jobcentre, although if you have a mobile on you and can still be contacted I don't see how they can begrude him helping his gran out. He can't be expected to sit in and hope that today is the day he gets a call for a job. The unemployed need a life too!.

My dad once was out of work he was self employed and he was stuffed! Apparently he had paid B, C and D contributions but no A...so he wasnt entitled to JSA!

Great seeing as he was 47 and worked all he could up to then!!!!

Happy it does say if you are going away from home for even a day then you need to inform the jobcentre, although if you have a mobile on you and can still be contacted I don't see how they can begrude him helping his gran out. He can't be expected to sit in and hope that today is the day he gets a call for a job. The unemployed need a life too!.

Really? I googled "going away from home, even if it is for a day", and found two fake sites, and this site. Tell me where you saw it.

You do not have to say where you are at all. What you have to do is show, upon request, that you have fulfilled the requirements to receive Jobseeker's Allowance.

Have you been unemployed recently?

Is that any of your business? Have you?

It says in the Jobcentre sign on books unless they just say that so you can never be far away and they use it to be nosey :lol:.

Nope. It says that you must actively seek work. That doesn't mean that you have to trawl every place where jobs may be available 24 hours a day, but that you have to have taken reasonable steps to secure employment.

In no way, shape or form does it say that you have to inform a Jobcentre of your whereabouts, unless you are in a position whereby the claim to benefit would be breached.

These aren't bail conditions, you know!

It says it somewhere I will find the form out tomorrow (well later on today and write it word for word).

Nope. It says that you must actively seek work. That doesn't mean that you have to trawl every place where jobs may be available 24 hours a day, but that you have to have taken reasonable steps to secure employment.

In no way, shape or form does it say that you have to inform a Jobcentre of your whereabouts, unless you are in a position whereby the claim to benefit would be breached.

These aren't bail conditions, you know!

I don't think you should have been so quick to jump down the OP's throat. You're the one who's wrong. I have the booklet in front of me now, it states; "you must tell us immediately if you change your address or are going away from home, EVEN IF IT IS FOR A DAY"

Right there in black and white.

I'm sorry but I just have to say that I find it disgusting that some people can unfairly butcher a new member to the point where they no longer want to be a part of the forum.

Actually when i am work i miss the time of unemplyment

i really cant be bothered with this post anymore.

ive said all i need to say.

Don't let the oh so perfect knockers drive you away from the forum ben and hope you have a satisfactory outcome to your problem.

Some of em should remember that they can be right some of the time but not ALL of the time and that the halo's that they wear might one day slip.....and strangle them.

My dad once was out of work he was self employed and he was stuffed! Apparently he had paid B, C and D contributions but no A...so he wasnt entitled to JSA!

Great seeing as he was 47 and worked all he could up to then!!!!

He wouldn't be entitled to contribution based JSA, because that is only available to people who pay sufficient class 1 NI contributions, which is essentially employees.

He would be entitled to non-contribution based JSA, subject to meeting the other requirements for the benefit.

I'm sorry but I just have to say that I find it disgusting that some people can unfairly butcher a new member to the point where they no longer want to be a part of the forum.

Butchered?

The OP was sensationalising his post to prove a point, despite evidence to the contrary. Oh and a little name calling by the OP too.

Really? I googled "going away from home, even if it is for a day", and found two fake sites, and this site. Tell me where you saw it.

You do not have to say where you are at all. What you have to do is show, upon request, that you have fulfilled the requirements to receive Jobseeker's Allowance.

I will tell you where i saw it right in front of my eyes FORM ES40JP PAGE 4 ITEM 6
Change address or are going away from home even if its for a day

unless of course this is fake as well

Butchered?

The OP was sensationalising his post to prove a point, despite evidence to the contrary. Oh and a little name calling by the OP too.

He wasn't sensationalising it at all. It DOES state you have to inform them if you are going away for even a day and the people at the jobcentre ARE idiots. Everything he said is true, yet some people will still find a way to have a go.

Obviously happyhippy the only thing that is going to convince you that to be unemployed is to be treated like sh*t is firsthand experience.

You never know, the cuts cometh...

Yes and when the cuts come and Ian Duncan Smith starts having an impact the service to the unemployed will only get worse.

Just be glad you are not an attractive young woman or they can insist you take a job in a massage parlar/brothel and if you refuse they will stop all your money.

He wasn't sensationalising it at all. It DOES state you have to inform them if you are going away for even a day and the people at the jobcentre ARE idiots. Everything he said is true, yet some people will still find a way to have a go.

Glad to see you don't generalise and base everything on facts. I'm afraid the OP needs to take responsibility for his own actions when claiming benefit, rather than vilifying the members of staff for doing their job, which doesn't mean someone is an idiot.

Glad to see you don't generalise and base everything on facts. I'm afraid the OP needs to take responsibility for his own actions when claiming benefit, rather than vilifying the members of staff for doing their job, which doesn't mean someone is an idiot.

Okay, forget generalisations, I'll speak from experience; any time I've had to deal with the jobcentre I've been screwed around with and treated sub-human, yet if you make any sort of mistake they're all over you like a fat kid on a doughnut. For example, if you're 10 minutes late you get a bollocking, yet any time I've been down for an appointment I've never been seen on time, they regularly keep you waiting for up to half an hour and then don't even offer you an apology.

No sensationalism, just facts from experience.

The system is a joke, before xmas I was unfortunate not to be working, however I worked one day and filled the form in giving all the information except for how much I was getting as I did not know till the week after. The following week I went and gave all the details how much I was paid stopped etc. I then received a letter saying that as I was now working and not unemployed even though they had the details saying it was one days work. I had a hell of a job sorting it out, I managed to get through to someone with some clout as a friend said ask for such a person and was told in future I would have to fill a form in saying that I hadn't worked at all and it would be clear then.:loopy: What is the point when you fill a form in saying you have worked and given the details, as I said to the man on the phone its incompetence why fill a form in saying you haven't worked when they already have one filled in saying you had worked and he said it makes it clear?:loopy:

they regularly keep you waiting for up to half an hour and then don't even offer you an apology.

No sensationalism, just facts from experience.

Probably because they are too busy seeing people that couldn’t make their scheduled time :roll: come on lets be fair one commitment every other week its not asking too much is it.

Probably because they are too busy seeing people that couldn’t make their scheduled time :roll: come on lets be fair one commitment every other week its not asking too much is it.

Who said it was? I'm talking about their hypocritical behaviour and general lack of manners.

I will tell you where i saw it right in front of my eyes FORM ES40JP PAGE 4 ITEM 6
Change address or are going away from home even if its for a day

unless of course this is fake as well

Could be the Manx version. I do actually think there is one as well. The only online reference I found was to the DWP 1002. I'll look at a current copy as soon as possible.

He wasn't sensationalising it at all. It DOES state you have to inform them if you are going away for even a day and the people at the jobcentre ARE idiots. Everything he said is true, yet some people will still find a way to have a go.

Shaz, legally you don't have to, unless you take it to the letter of the law, as opposed to using the law.

You are only supposed to say anything if you have prior knowledge of where you're going, why, and you intend to go. It also has to be in writing, and before you go.

This particular situation will go down as a 'domestic emergency', unless there have been several other domestic matters recently. You do not have to (save for the absolute legal reasons) say in which town you are.

When I say absolute legal reasons, I mean it has to get to the point where when those reasons are argued, there may be a reason to dispute the answers.

Okay, forget generalisations, I'll speak from experience; any time I've had to deal with the jobcentre I've been screwed around with and treated sub-human, yet if you make any sort of mistake they're all over you like a fat kid on a doughnut. For example, if you're 10 minutes late you get a bollocking, yet any time I've been down for an appointment I've never been seen on time, they regularly keep you waiting for up to half an hour and then don't even offer you an apology.

No sensationalism, just facts from experience.

Ever thought that the wazzocks who have kept workers waiting have meant that workers haven't even had a drink of water since their first interview?

Yes, people who are there genuinely wanting to help do turn up.

Oddly enough after ten wazzocks who want to waste an adviser's time (which becomes your time), one person turns up (randomly, through appointments) who does want help.

It is remarkable how often this person turns up at exactly the wrong time. I'm not being sarky, it always is like that! But really, do you really begrudge an adviser a cuppa? Staff who are front line may be public servants, but at least let them have a sodding cuppa!

Who said it was? I'm talking about their hypocritical behaviour and general lack of manners.

If only the people who turned up generally showed a higher level of manners. It would make life so much easier.

Fair point. And let's extend it to appearance. So anyone who:


Is clearly under the influence.

Pretends they cannot understand English (apart from 'I'll see you in a fortnight')

Obviously hasn't had a wash in a week.

Has no proof whatsoever of job-seeking activity

Thinks the JC is a creche for their ugly, loud, next-generation feckless kid(s).


Can join the queue marked 'Clear off. Don't waste our time'. This will give you the time to spend with people who obviously want help and maybe even brighten your mood!

But of course, that won't happen. Discrimination, innit? Breaches their 'Human (?) Rights!'.

But actually, it's plainly stated in your literature etc. - 'Should be actively seeking work...' when they plainly aren't. But this is blatantly ignored whereas the 'You must tell us...even if it's only for a day...' is adhered to rigourously.

That's all understandable happyhippy, but it's a lot of conjecture on your part. What if this and what if that. I never said JC workers shouldn't be allowed breaks or a chance for a cup of tea. Even if they have had to deal with 10 morons prior to my appointment, they should still maintain enough professionalism to treat me appropriately, seeing as I have arrived on time, looking presentable and speaking politely. At least offer me an apology for having to wait around for half an hour. There are so many jobs out there where snotty, rude customers will make you feel like turning into the incredible hulk, but if everyone succumbed to those feelings the world would be chaotic. You have to put on your fake smile and stay polite; I know this from my own experience and I know it's not easy, but it's just something you should do as a good employee. It is something the majority of people at the JC have forgotten how to do.

I guess my point here is to treat everyone individually and appropriately; if some tool rolls into the jobcentre late and with an attitude, fine, keep them waiting and don't apologise. If, however, someone like me turns up, on time, show me the same respect.

I can't believe you have to inform them if you leave Sheffield, surely that's against your Human Rights? You are not a criminal, you don't have a tag that prevents you from leaving Sheffield. Disgusting to be fair and I share your feelings on it.

What is even worse is when you claim for JC they want to see ALL your bank accounts and how much money you have in. And ALL your wage slips for the previous 3 months.

I tried to claim few years ago. I filled in a massive online form, then someone phoned me up to ask the same questions and then I had to go down to the job centre and someone else again asked all the same questions. After 6 weeks no money had appeared. I sent a letter but got no reply, I phoned up but they said that they couldn't see why it hadn't been sent. I asked at the JC when I signed on but they said it was nothing to do with them. I gave up in the end.

Personally I think they do right. Not saying you are, but so many people seem to cheat the system that they have to start getting stricter.

To me, it seems a little odd that you have an appointment with the job centre and so decide to go off to Manchester for the day. You say the relatives are on holiday, why didn't you arrange to help her with her shopping on another day? You knew the relatives were going on holiday, if they couldn't make it for some unexpected reason and your gran was in danger then I'd understand it.

If you can't get to an appointment once every 2 weeks then they do right to consider whether you are entitled to receive the money.

Who are these people who seem to cheat the system? Whats your evidence for this?

Who are these people who seem to cheat the system? Whats your evidence for this?

I know i said i would not post on this thread again despite the fact i started it.

But i have to say... i hear the same thing all the time Keith.


"People are cheating the system"


Who? How? In what way?


I could think of a few ways, but im not sure the problem is so huge.

Of course there will be people who lie about things like council tax, for example single mothers saying they live alone so they get more benefits.

But i think the truth is, most will probably only do that because they need to. Surviving on benefits is hard, and such thing as a £30 discount per month on council tax (assuming she has to pay any of it), could make a huge difference to the food thats going on the table in that household.


But then you have the people who clearly cheat the system. Those faking disability. Those who have cash only jobs on the side while claiming JSA and other benefits. These people do exist, maybe not in such large numbers , but they need finding, and punishing. They should pay back every penny!

Fair point. And let's extend it to appearance. So anyone who:


Is clearly under the influence.

Pretends they cannot understand English (apart from 'I'll see you in a fortnight')

Obviously hasn't had a wash in a week.

Has no proof whatsoever of job-seeking activity

Thinks the JC is a creche for their ugly, loud, next-generation feckless kid(s).


Can join the queue marked 'Clear off. Don't waste our time'. This will give you the time to spend with people who obviously want help and maybe even brighten your mood!

But of course, that won't happen. Discrimination, innit? Breaches their 'Human (?) Rights!'.

But actually, it's plainly stated in your literature etc. - 'Should be actively seeking work...' when they plainly aren't. But this is blatantly ignored whereas the 'You must tell us...even if it's only for a day...' is adhered to rigourously.

I see people like this in the job centre all the time. Especially the ones who cannot understand english unless it suits them. Lol Its so funny.

But its also not funny, think of how much money is wasted on translation services. If they cant speak english, what chance do they have of been a productive worker for your average company? Little or none.

If they cant speak english, what chance do they have of been a productive worker for your average company? Little or none.

Don’t kid yourself, there are factories full of Polish workers (don’t you know anyone that works at Bassets) and much of the manual farming work is done by foreign workers.

Company I work for employs a lot of Polish staff. 160 employees overall. Before the influx of polish workers an average month would see a turnover of 29 staff, on average. Obviously you don’t want to have to train 29 staff every month.

You have to be able to rely on your workforce and if someone doesn’t even bother to let you know they’re not turning up, what’re you supposed to do?

Experience has shown our company that the foreign staff turn up, on time and work.

End of the day, they want work. Who’d you employ?
1. Someone who can’t be bothered to get out of bed to call you?
2. Someone who’s motivated enough to have moved country to better their lot?

http://www.sheffieldforum.co.uk/archive/index.php/t-232459.html

That's all understandable happyhippy, but it's a lot of conjecture on your part. What if this and what if that. I never said JC workers shouldn't be allowed breaks or a chance for a cup of tea. Even if they have had to deal with 10 morons prior to my appointment, they should still maintain enough professionalism to treat me appropriately, seeing as I have arrived on time, looking presentable and speaking politely. At least offer me an apology for having to wait around for half an hour.

I agree with you shaz, but it's reality it's not conjecture. It doesn't matter, as you rightly say. A public facing job is a job no matter what and there are standards which are expected to be kept.

When I mentioned staff taking a break, it was in relation to being kept waiting. Not that you suggested that nobody should have a break!

There are so many jobs out there where snotty, rude customers will make you feel like turning into the incredible hulk, but if everyone succumbed to those feelings the world would be chaotic. You have to put on your fake smile and stay polite; I know this from my own experience and I know it's not easy, but it's just something you should do as a good employee. It is something the majority of people at the JC have forgotten how to do.

I'd reckon it's the other way round actually. A hell of a lot of the signing-on staff are very inexperienced, and also rushed. There is nobody to cover usually as well, and they have much less time too.

I guess my point here is to treat everyone individually and appropriately; if some tool rolls into the jobcentre late and with an attitude, fine, keep them waiting and don't apologise. If, however, someone like me turns up, on time, show me the same respect.

They are kept waiting. What about the person who also turns up on time, who has also been inconvenienced by a moron before you?

They must be seen before you, despite the fact it inconveniences you, as they have already been inconvenienced. This is a daily matter, and believe me it is troublesome in the extreme.

I certainly agree (again) that you should be shown respect. Please also respect workers who have little control over their working patterns. It is a two-way process.

I know i said i would not post on this thread again despite the fact i started it.

But i have to say... i hear the same thing all the time Keith.


"People are cheating the system"


Who? How? In what way?


I could think of a few ways, but im not sure the problem is so huge.

Of course there will be people who lie about things like council tax, for example single mothers saying they live alone so they get more benefits.

But i think the truth is, most will probably only do that because they need to. Surviving on benefits is hard, and such thing as a £30 discount per month on council tax (assuming she has to pay any of it), could make a huge difference to the food thats going on the table in that household.


But then you have the people who clearly cheat the system. Those faking disability. Those who have cash only jobs on the side while claiming JSA and other benefits. These people do exist, maybe not in such large numbers , but they need finding, and punishing. They should pay back every penny!

Ben, what has this got to do with your complaint about being being poorly treated as you were away from Sheffield?

Could be the Manx version. I do actually think there is one as well. The only online reference I found was to the DWP 1002. I'll look at a current copy as soon as possible.

No the manx one is much simpler bit like myself realy
Still in front of me in black and white

•
go away from home, even if it’s for a day
Bottom line page 25 dwp 1002
Thank you happyhippy for that sorce of knowledge

Does that cover it happyhippy

Fair point. And let's extend it to appearance. So anyone who:


Is clearly under the influence.

Pretends they cannot understand English (apart from 'I'll see you in a fortnight')

Obviously hasn't had a wash in a week.

Has no proof whatsoever of job-seeking activity

Thinks the JC is a creche for their ugly, loud, next-generation feckless kid(s).


Can join the queue marked 'Clear off. Don't waste our time'. This will give you the time to spend with people who obviously want help and maybe even brighten your mood!

But of course, that won't happen. Discrimination, innit? Breaches their 'Human (?) Rights!'.

But actually, it's plainly stated in your literature etc. - 'Should be actively seeking work...' when they plainly aren't. But this is blatantly ignored whereas the 'You must tell us...even if it's only for a day...' is adhered to rigourously.

I knew I'd forgotten to reply to summat! 'My' literature? You're making assumptions again!

As I have said repeatedly, I hope in this case common sense is used, and that the case in point is treated as a 'domestic emergency', which doesn't fall under the same rule. Now let's look at your list.

Point 1: Clearly? How do you know? Being under the influence doesn't mean that you can't competently do a job. Just those which require you not to be so.

Point 2: If someone has difficulty in speaking or doesn't speak English, this is obviously sorted out at the initial claim stage. It is at that point, if they qualify for JSA or other benefits which require an element of jobseeking activity, they are referred to English language courses.

End of story.

Point 3: Might be working part-time as a mechanic, and trying to sort out his own business. Most people a few years ago who had seen me down at the Lane wouldn't have thought "Well, he's clearly a manager in the Civil Service at a National Level with a responsibility crucial to the function of a huge Government Department".

Never judge a book, and all that. I'd have thought you'd be trying to proffer me that advice, not the other way about.

Point 4: Got me here, as there is a form which can be issued and should be checked. People who are required to do so should have all the information every time they turn up. Thing is though, the staff also spend all day trying to get Mr "Like You'll Get Me To Move Now, As It's Two Hours Until Opening Time" to play the game, whilst keeping the likes of shaz and your good self behind all through that.

It really isn't easy.

Point 5: People who are there with semi-feral children are few and far between (though often loud), and unlikely to be a part of the jobseeking element of Jobcentre Plus, unless they happen to be with the NDLP section.

It's not a case of 'brightening a day', or 'making it easier', but trying to explain why staff's days are dulled, and perhaps more so than people realise.

Does that cover it happyhippy

Didn't I answer this a bit back :)

Right... lets just say the bus that i normally get to the job centre didnt turn up, and i miss my appointment? despite the fact i set off on time etc... as normal, i didnt control the fact the bus didnt turn up...

Just as with my situation i did not control the fact the motorway then the parkway were jammed. I set off with plenty of time to get back, it was unforeseen circumstances that stopped me getting to the job centre on time, not the fact i chose to go help an old lady.

You must work at the job centre or something. Idiot.


The problem the job centre have with me, the reason they are disputing my claim for JSA is not because i could not make my sign on time, its because i did not tell them i was "going away from home" for a few hours. That is the issue here.

To be fair if you had employment you couldn't leave town. It'd be expected of you to get to work on time, everyday.

To be fair if you had employment you couldn't leave town. It'd be expected of you to get to work on time, everyday.

have to argue though that if in employment he would be likey to be there for what 40 hours a week then free to do as he pleases for the other 128 hours!

his not commited a crime so surely its unfair to expect every hour of every day to be spent twiddling his thumbs waiting for replys from jobs when he could be proactive and living a normal life (ie say he got a job doing 4 days on 4 off type shift work), and he wasnt due to work untill 4pm on the monday so arranged to take his gran shopping in the morning is this not a normal thing for someone who is working? so why expect him not to because he has extra free time on his hands at the moment!

i have no idea what the job centre is playing at.

i was told last thursday that i would be paid as normal this week despite this little "dispute" they have with me.


it takes 3 working days to process a payment from the job centre. if i sign on wednesday it will be in my account on a monday.

so assuming i sign on a thursday it will be in my account on a tuesday.

NOTHING


looks like ive got some expensive phone calls to make now the job centre uses a 0845 number. also looks like im not going to be eating anything today.

i have no idea what the job centre is playing at.

i was told last thursday that i would be paid as normal this week despite this little "dispute" they have with me.


it takes 3 working days to process a payment from the job centre. if i sign on wednesday it will be in my account on a monday.

so assuming i sign on a thursday it will be in my account on a tuesday.

NOTHING


looks like ive got some expensive phone calls to make now the job centre uses a 0845 number. also looks like im not going to be eating anything today.

if your struggling with credit to make phone calls try the CAB they will allow you to make phone calls from there to sort it out!

Didn't I answer this a bit back :)

Actually, no, you didn't. You said you think it might be the Manx version, then said you were going to go away and confirm. You have been proven wrong by three people, even though you were determined to be right.

Actually, no, you didn't. You said you think it might be the Manx version, then said you were going to go away and confirm. You have been proven wrong by three people, even though you were determined to be right.

Thank you scottsmith

looks like ive got some expensive phone calls to make now the job centre uses a 0845 number.

Use www.saynoto0870.com there are alternative numbers (landline) to 0845 numbers.

Simples.

brilliant, i got a few letters in the post this morning.

first saying they cannot pay me my dole from last week until a decision has been made about my claim.


a second asking for more information about the dispute. the annoying thing is i already gave them this information.

they wanted to know what time i set off back from manchester... they wanted to know why i did not make it back in time to sign on. and then wanted to know why i went there in the first place.


all information i have given to at least 2 people at the job centre itself.


so now im broke. im now overdrawn on my account, i need to magically make money appear by the end of the day or i will get a bank charge, grrrr

screw the job centre, screw them all, i can now understand why they need several security gaurds there at all times!

its easy to want to throttle these lying cheating b*stards!!!


any excuse not to pay you!!!


apparently i will get paid £51 tomorrow (late payment for my dole the week before last). that will cover some of the damage, but after ive cleared my overdraft, its going to leave me with about £1.50 for 2 weeks worth of food, and theres nothing i can do about it.

cept beg for a crisis loan

If they need at least 3 people to ask thje same questions surley that is costing more than just paying you in the first place. Am i missing something here? It seems a false ecconomy.

Use www.saynoto0870.com there are alternative numbers (landline) to 0845 numbers.

Simples.

You can call FREE from any job centre for a benefit related enquiry. There is no need to pay for such calls yourself.

If they need at least 3 people to ask thje same questions surley that is costing more than just paying you in the first place. Am i missing something here? It seems a false ecconomy.

Exactly, never mind all the paperwork involved.

Like i said ive already got letters today asking for more information from me. Which i have sent back in a prepaid package.

Then the decision maker will take ANOTHER look at the incident before making his decision which will 99% of the time be on the side of the useless job centre staff who are not allowed to make their own decisions.


Its hilarious. In wages alone they have most likely spent at least 4x the amount i would recieve for the week in question.

Then if i dispute the decision they make (if it goes against me), it will cost them even more. Maybe 20x the amount that is been disputed.


Its a complete joke! If one person at the job centre listened to my reasoning, then made a decision whether he thinks im entitled to JSA for that week then it would have taken one person no more than 20 minutes. Instead they want to drag this on for weeks and weeks.

Pathetic. I think this is the difference between private and public sector.

To the private company, time is money and they would solve such a dispute with a customer as quickly as possible and try to please both parties.

The public sector need to justify their own existence, and feel like they have a unlimited amount of time to do anything, as they will get paid regardless of whether they do it or not.