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single parent - universal credit - really worried

NAS19723

Hi, 

I recently split with my partner and start a new universal credit claim as a single person.  I'm not working at the moment.  I receive carer allowance for my 9 years old autistic son.  I haven't had my interview yet for the universal credit but I'm really worried because I heard you'll be pressured to find a job?  Also if you refused to work, they can refused your universal credit application?  I would like to work but I don't have any family/friend who can help with the childcare.  My ex also only able to take him on weekends.

Anybody in a similar situation? Unemployed, receiving carers allowance and applying for single parent universal credit?

Please advise, I'm really really worried.

Thanks. 

  • Not sure if this helps but dwp state that you can get universal credit while claiming carers allowance but they count it as income so reduce your entitlement. But they also state that some people will qualify for a care component which will raise the amount you get again 

  • Unfortunately, when dealing with the welfare providers it often comes down to the person you see on the day.  They can either make your life really easy or a living hell.

    Over the years I have had experience of 2 different Jobcentre+ and the associated staff.  The experience between the 2 could not be further apart.  In the first, you were literally looked down upon and treated like scrounging scum with any infraction, or perceived infraction, punished to the fullest.  In the second, the staff couldn't be more friendly or helpful.  For example, even though the rules state that you have to do everything you can to find work, where I have been suffering depression and anxiety, my particular "work coach" has the attitude that I need to get my head right before getting a job.  Because of this, she has cut back my commitments (the list of things you agree to do in order to get back into work etc) right back to the bare minimum - to the point that I only need to look at jobs at the moment with no pressure to actually apply for any.

    So, not knowing what part of the country you are in or anything like that, all I can say is go to your interview, try your best to present your case and try and build an honest rapport with your "work coach".  A decent one will take your other commitments into account.  Not only that, but any volunteering activities you do can count towards your work effort, especially if it brings you into contact with a diverse group of people that may, lead to a job etc.

    Wishing you all the best