erastes

So – another morning at the Job Centre and another session of being treated like a fucking CRIMINAL.

Today it was another new (probably contract) worker who I’d never seen before. I clearly have written on my jobseekers job book “I am unable to look for work as I’m now transferring to Carer’s Allowance as I’m looking after my father for 35 hours a week - and they will be paying me from 1st April 2010.” However Shona says “And what have you done to look for work?”

Me: Nothing - *points to helpful explanatory note*

Shona: *puts on voice probably reserved for the very very very dim.* Yes, but you see – to be eligible for Job Seeker’s Allowance, you need to be seeking work.

Me: Yes. I know. However.. *explains again*

Shona: *basically repeats what she just said because obviously I didn’t hear her the first time.*

Me: Yes I know. I could have made up a job search, but I thought it was best to be honest! Silly me!

Shona: Did you bring this letter in from the Carer’s department?

Me: No, I didn’t.

Shona: Why not?

Me: Because it didn’t tell me that I’d NEED to, plus it clearly stated that THEY HAD BEEN IN TOUCH WITH YOU.

Shona: We need to see a copy of that letter.

Me: Can’t you get them to send you one?

Shona: No.

Me: OK – i’ll bring it in next time.

Shona: We need to see it before that. come back with a copy.

Me: NO. I live miles away, and I commute to Dad’s which is 30 miles from HERE. I’ll post a copy.

Shona: All right. And you’ll need to keep applying for jobs until the Carer’s Allowance kicks in.

Me: How stupid. I won’t apply – but I’ll pretend I have – all right?

Shona: Yes, that’s fine.

ARGH!!!!

then I went to the library, and there were no parking spots left so I waited until one freed up, and when someone backed their car out, this car with two chavs just drove in and pinched it!

So - STELLAR day. All in all!

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