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Job Seekers Allowance and looking for work

NAS65321

Hi all, have my first JSA interview in two days and its really stressing me. Have not claimed a penny in benefits since 1992 and have no idea how it all works. Long story short- we relocated at Christmas and I wanted to take 6 months off due to mental health (ASD and ADHD) and I now need a job. No desire to work but need the income. Been applying for a few months getting nowhere and now have to admit I am unemployed. Worked the last 32 years without a break of more than a couple of months in total and have never claimed since 1992.
I had a pretty niche job before and I want to leave that behind anyway, now live in a rural area and seen nothing advertised for that. Am applying for wharehouse, factory, retail, caretaker, maintenace type jobs but had one interview in 3 months.
I am already stressed that the interview is in a city an hour away that I have only been to a few times. My biggest worry is being bullied into jobs I can not do. I will do part time, or min wage but must be mon-fri 9-5ish. Never worked outside these hours and mentally, or socially can't deal with working weekends. I am assuming this will not be acceptable to them and its something I should hide?

I do not qualify for anything under PIP as I can look after myself etc. I do have lots of work related anxiety but I try and overcome that, however that was part of the reasons that caused me to relocate. Anybody idea how my AuDHD fits in to all of this? I was only diagnosed at 53 so got through my working life somehow and know I can work, its just all very stressful.

Rob

  • Hi thanks for the responces, in the end it turned out to be fine. They changed it to a closer job center, the guy was very nice, glad he was my sort of age. No preassure at the moment to do any job, all very relaxed thankfully.

  • Dear Rob,

    Thanks for reaching out about this, it sounds like this is quite a difficult situation for you. 

    The Citizens Advice service can be helpful when navigating the benefits system- https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk 

    I have also linked our advice and guidance on employment https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/employment

    I hope some of this is helpful,

    Best wishes

    Olivia Mod

  • Hello Rob!

    When it comes to the interview, is there the possibility you can bring someone with you to the city? That might make managing the travel part a lot easier - and in addition reduce your overall stress for the interview.

    Telling the interviewers that you cannot in any circumstances work weekends could be a deal breaker, but honestly? That might be a good thing. If they won’t take you because you’re unable to work weekends, then it probably wasn’t the right employer anyways. I can understand feeling desperate for any job you get an interview for (I’ve been there), but your mental health is still important. I would advise don’t bring up AuDHD unless you feel it is safe to do so.

    I wish you best of luck and I hope it is a job you’re a great fit for!