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Hi, Im new here but in a total flap, Im on the work programme and on one particular day my 7 year old was off ill from school which was the same day as a work programme interview, i rang my advisor in plenty of time and she gave me another apt, yesterday i received a good reason letter which said that the day after he was off ill i signed and made no mention of having to look after my son the day before (I didnt know i had to) and now theyre asking if i was available to take a job opportunity, if i put no because obv my child was ill im going to be be sanctioned but if i lie and say yes i was available for a job opportunity then they would sanction me because ive missed the interview - im going lose out just for caring for my child, what can i do? Thanks
Thankyou for your reply Louise, its a bit of an odd one isnt it.
There is an official complaints procedure if you do get a sanction (it would tell you about this if you get a sanction letter) but let's hope it does not happen.
Its hard enough to live on benefits as it is without this kind of thing hanging over me amongst other life worries its really not fair, having to deal with a complaints dept is something that i really could do without right now i dread the post arriving and im finding life really tough right now its a headache i dont need i feel im being punished for having children, thankyou for your support Louise X
You're welcome, I think a lot of parents feel as you do, jamie-loo. If things escalate, I would definitely involve your MP. It is only by highlighting these things to the law makers that change can happen. SPAN and One Space are campaigning all the time to alleviate the situation. Our Parliamentary officer will be interested to hear of your situation and I will bring it to her notice.
Jamie-loo
Your post made me so cross. At the Single Parent Action Network, the charity that runs One Space we campaign a lot about single parents on job seeking benefits and protecting children's well-being. I have raised the issue of a set procedure when a child is ill, and the fact that a parent should not be punished for doing the right thing and looking after that child. As well as being a job seeker you are the person responsible for your child's health and well-being. Jobseeking Agreements should reflect (and this is the law) your child's well-being. You notified your adviser that your child was ill and that you could not attend an appointment. You then went in for your next appointment as scheduled. What on earth can they think you have done wrong? If there are further problems let me know. I will take up with the DWP.
Laura
I don't know the answer to this one, jamie-loo and see exactly what you mean. I would be inclined not to answer the question directly but to send the letter back with a covering letter of your own explaining that your little one was ill and your appointment had been changed and you did not realise you had to mention that at the subsequent appointment. Then you could ask your advisor what to do? The question is actually a superfluous one as there wasn't a job available anyway!!!Sorry I can't suggest anything more helpful. It seems ridiculous if your child is never permitted to be ill. I guess some people do swing the lead but you did everything the right way and went in as soon as possible.