seasonal work and benefits

[tracini]

hi, just been made redundant and there is only seasonal work in the coastal town i live at the moment, i have found a full time seasonal job but i have now been told if i take a seasonal job i wouldnt be able to claim any benefits when i finish for the winter....is this correct info??? thanks

[doktorjohn]

That cannot be right.

 

- dj

[tracini]

thats what i think, but heard off 2 people now, not claimed before so this is new to me, but i cant go all winter without any help, anyone know for sure??? got an appointment at jobcentre on wed so will let u know what i find out!!

[ErikaPNP]

http://www.dwp.gov.uk/docs/dmgch20.pdf

 

Someone has got their wires crossed. There is no outright exemption to seasonal workers from JSA, it depends on the circumstances, you have to be in "remunerative employment". For example, someone who only works during a season but is employed all year and paid pro-rata year round (or guaranteed employment every continuing season) may not satisfy the conditions as they are already employed though not physically working at certain times of the year.

 

The job you describe (I think) is fixed term only. You're paid for that season only as and when you work and when it's done, it's done, no pay continues and no contract continues and though you may be taken on again when the next season starts, until then you are not employed or paid by them and no guarantee of work next season. If this is the case, perhaps refer to it as fixed term employment rather than seasonal. Reason for leaving employment: end of fixed term contract.

 

Hope that adds a little clarity.

[tracini]

thanks for that, really helps, so at the end of fixed term employment you can claim??? sorry i am new to all this, thanks

[ErikaPNP]

Yes, a fixed term contract which has come to an end is not a barrier to claiming JSA.

[tracini]

great news thx for all youre help!