Jersey unemployment spike blamed on change to income support

The law change means some parents have to start job-seeking in the academic year their child turns four

An increase in the number of people looking for work in Jersey has been blamed on a change to income support.

Previously parents on income support did not need to look for work until their youngest child turned five.

Now they have to look for work from the start of the academic year their child turns four.

In September there were 1,560 people looking for work, up 160 on the previous month. Of those 220 had children starting nursery.

Social security minister, Deputy Susie Pinel said parents would now be classified as actively seeking work, which explained the spike.

All children in Jersey get 20 hours free nursery education in the year they turn four.

It is unlikely the change will save the social security department much money initially, as many of the parents will still receive income support.

A department spokeswoman said they had to accept jobs they were offered, but only needed to work a minimum of 15 hours and would still receive income support in line with their income.

Mrs Pinel said: "The aim is that when these parents are in a position to be able to work, and ultimately achieve financial independence, they are given the best chance possible."

Helen Nicole, a mother of one whose child has just started nursery, said she was nervous about returning to work.

She said: "I've worked on my CV and had mock interviews, which has really helped. I've also got an IT course starting next week which I'm excited about."