I AM writing on behalf of West Devon Citizens advice bureau with information that might be useful to your readers.
Since the closure of the Jobcentre Plus offices in Okehampton and Tavistock people have had to travel to Exeter or Plymouth to sign on and claim their Job Seeker's Allowance.
For routine signing on, travel expenses are not paid, however, travel costs can be claimed if you are given an appointment for an interview on a day other than the day you normally attend to sign on.
The Department of Work and Pensions might allow you to sign on by post if you live more than one hour's journey away from the Jobcentre Plus office or you have a mental or physical disability which restricts your mobility, or you are suffering financial hardship as a result of the travel expenses involved in signing on.
Although Exeter is only 25 miles away from Okehampton the bus journey takes over an hour. The return bus fare of £6 is also a considerable chunk out of your benefits. Similarly, Tavistock to Plymouth can take an hour and cost £5. To apply for postal signing please write to the Jobcentre — you will find the address on your most recent award letter.
You will still need to attend for your first interview and any further interviews as required. You must ensure you get your signed declaration posted in time as specified by the Department of Work and Pensions. If this is not received then your benefit will be stopped.
For further information please call into West Devon Citizens Advice Bureau or telephone 01837 52574 or 01822 612 359. http://www.adviceguide.org.uk">www.adviceguide.org.uk is also a useful resource.
Mandy Kenyon
Development officer
West Devon Citizens Advice Bureau