End of SMP

[jenny82]

My maternity pay runs out next month. I'm not going back to my full time job, for a number of reasons - I start uni in September (final year, can't work at the same time), my work is a horrible place, we can't afford full time childcare over the summer, and I don't want LO in a creche anyway until I have to! etc etc

Anyway, I've never really been without a job before. Are there any benefits I can apply for if I don't go back to work? Its just for the few months over the summer. My mum was saying I can go on the dole or something, but I just don't know how any of that works!

 

[xolily]

I'm not sure either. I was planning on going back to work but with OH not being around atm I can't as i'd rather not put Laila in childcare. I could go back PT and my mum could have Laila on her 2days off while I worked but it would mean Laila sleeping out 2 nights a week and I don't want really want that either. I have no idea how am gonna be able to afford it or what I will be entitled to but I know lots of people that haven't gone back to work and they seem to be able to manage

 

[2nd time mum]

I would think you would get Income Support type allowance. Give the Jobcentre a phone. They can normally advise you of everything over the phone.

There was a website called "entitled to" which can take you through everything. I am sure that was what it was called.

 

[jenny82]

I was on 'entitled to' and if anything,it told me we were entitled to LESS than what we are now! I'm just confused :/

Also, technically I'm a full time student but on a year's sabbatical so I might not get anything.

Do the citizens advice help with this type of thing?