This week, we’re handing over to the mighty Craig Thomas, who wants a chat about unemployment… Then there’s the social stigma and emotional pressure that emanates, intentionally or not, from every angle (friends, family, Job Centre, but most of all, yourself), not to mention the isolation and loneliness that can result. All of which gets worse as time goes on, making finding a job feel ever more daunting and impossible. So, it is important to take care of yourself, and allow yourself a little break now and again. Whilst the below isn’t a magic pill to fix everything, hopefully some of the tips and concessions below will help to reduce the pressure during this time. It’s worth noting that pretty much everywhere you go to claim a concession will require some form of proof of eligibility. Each place will have different requirements, and it is recommended to check ahead of time. For most places a combination of ID, proof of address and some from documentation (such as a letter) showing the claiming of unemployment benefit will be sufficient. Eye Tests There are a number of reasons you may be eligible for a free (read: NHS-funded) eye test, and claiming some form unemployment benefit is one of them (as with all these things check your eligibility beforehand). If you’re put off by the idea of needing to fork out for a new pair of glasses, don’t worry as there is no obligation to purchase after such a test. However, you are also likely to be eligible for an NHS optical voucher for glasses (but, as always, ask to make sure). This can used to cover the entire or partial cost of a new pair of glasses, although it may vary depending on which optician you visit. There’s also no obligation to get your glasses and eye test on the same day, or even in the same store. So it might be worthwhile shopping around for the best deal. They can often be used with existing deals. So in some places you can use the voucher along with a two-for-one deal and get a second pair, or even a pair of prescription sunglasses for free! Doctor’s Prescriptions However, again, if you are unemployed you can avoid this charge and get a free NHS prescription. So there’s no need to let financial limitations prevent you from getting medical assistance. This is particularly important if your unemployment (long or short term) are causing you emotional or mental health issues, which may be making your situation worse. Keeping healthy and active is a good idea in general, and particularly important to keep in mind if you spend most of your time with nowhere to go. Whilst it can be expensive to join a gym, it is always worth checking the website to see if they have an unemployed concession. Whilst this is not always the case with private gyms (though some of the “no frills” gyms offer a low monthly charge anyway), your local leisure centre likely offers a discounted rate. There will also be further discounts depending on your payment plan. For example, setting up a no-contract direct debit is often the cheaper than paying cash, and a long-term contract is usually cheaper again. Though of course make sure you are able to commit to future payments if you are signing up to a long-term contract. Jobcentre Plus Travel Discount Card So you might need to be a bit persistent (but, of course, polite) when requesting this from the Job Centre. It will also likely require you to go for another appointment to get it sorted. It is also worth nothing that you must have been unemployed for three months to become eligible for a pass. Whilst you will need two passport photos (my local post office has a booth that charge £4 for four photos), this will provide you with approximately half-price travel on most public transport, both buses and trains. For those living in London, it can also be added to your Oyster Card for discounted fairs. Whilst it isn’t eligible for long-distance coaches and the such, it can save you a lot of money and make going somewhere less burdensome, both for appointments, interviews, and travelling in general. Some more information can be found here:
