16/17 Year Olds - Jobseeker's Allowance
If a 16/17 year old is classed as being in a vulnerable group, this could be someone:
- who is forced to live away from their parents or another person acting in place of their parents; or
- couples with children; or
- those being released from custody or local authority care,
they will be able to claim Jobseeker's Allowance, normally for a short period, if they will suffer severe hardship if Jobseeker's Allowance is not paid.
Where a young person is registered for and waiting for a suitable training place they can also apply for Jobseeker's Allowance under the severe hardship rules. They must be available for and actively seeking work and training, and have signed a Jobseeker's Agreement. If the decision maker is satisfied that the young person is at risk of severe hardship, they will make a Departmental Severe Hardship Direction (usually for 8 weeks). The Direction will only be issued if the young person would otherwise suffer severe hardship.
Some young people will be able to claim Jobseeker's Allowance, without having to register with the Department for Employment and Learning (DEL). These include:
- armed forces recruits; or
- those who are temporarily laid off; or
- on short time working.
A specially tailored Jobseeker's Agreement will be introduced for young people and will include details of the type of training and work the young person is seeking and the action agreed to achieve their goals.
Sanctions will be applied where young people refuse offers of training or employment or leave training without good cause.
To make a claim a young person will need to visit the Social Security or Jobs & Benefits office.
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