Return to workplace supports after long-term unemployed.

mondeoman72

So, am delighted to say, after some horrible years, bankrupt in the high court, back to school on BTEA, ducking and diving like hell and the rest, collision with SEETEC, the works. I have just got my dream job. I have a start date in September.

Now I will be signing off JSA and standing on my own two feet, I am absolutely delighted. Dont want to mess up, so not saying much about the job. I recall reading somewhere, that long term unemployed returning to the workplace can access diminishing supports to soften the loss of benefits. The main thing I am thinking of is the medical card. I have issues which cause bills of over a hundred a month at a minimum.

I cannot find this info now. Does anyone know where I can look. I checked the usual places.

Dempo1

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058205108/return-to-workplace-supports-after-long-term-unemployed

Fantastic news, just fantastic.

I'm not sure in your case (obtaining a full time job) theres a short term, diminishing support, I think they are geared towards educational advancement etc.

I believe however you could get a SWA payment, a basic income until you get your first salary payment, in essence to tie you over. The Department will be more than delighted to help you in this scenario and honestly the best thing is to contact your local Intero centre in advance of signing off and prior to starting new job.

Again, delighted for you, you've certainly triumphed after what was clearly a challenging few years.

Well done and best wishes 😊

Well done on finding employment!

Usually you can keep your medical card for up to 3 years if you've been getting your JSA long term.

Do you have kids on your JSA claim? If so, back to work family dividend may be an option. Or maybe Working Family Payment.

A CWO might pay you the Supplementary Welfare Allowance until you get your first pay. It doesn't have to be paid back so do apply for it.

mondeoman72

That's good to know. My recurring medical bill is about 100 a month. Then add doctors bills and prescriptions. So the medical card is the Biggie.

I don't know the payment arrangement yet. My home is in special measures so need an assured income while this change happens. If it's payment by the month in arrears, I could have an issue.

ONWARDS and UPWARDS

gipi

https://www2.hse.ie/services/medical-cards/keeping-a-medical-card-after-unemployment.html

Dempo1

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/117785176#Comment_117785176

Absolutely, the medical card whilst a seperate issue from OP can be retained for a defined period and there is the SWA as mentioned, obviously not knowing the roll you've obtained its quite possible it will be a few weeks before you see first wages so definitely make enquires in advance.

Just re medical card, there's a seperate issue re renewals to be aware of on a seperate thread, if yours is well in date, no need to worry, you can look at this when things have settled.