Jodi needs a ticket to ride

From the Bolton Evening News, first published Saturday 25th Sep 1999.

A TRAINEE hairdresser says a jobs loophole is threatening an exciting new work opportunity after years on the dole.

The 20-year-old's plight has been championed by Bolton North East MP David Crausby, who is hoping to put pressure on the Government to bridge the gap between long-term unemployment and new work.

Jodi Bennett has had his ambition to become a hairdresser fulfilled after leading salon, Toni&Guy, offered him a full-time job.

But Jodi says after dropping his Job Seekers Allowance, he is now unable to take up his new-found job - because he can't afford to travel to Liverpool.

Busy

Toni&Guy are opening a branch in Bolton today but Jodi has to complete his training at the busy city salon in Liverpool before working at the Bolton branch.

Denise Lonsdale, from the Unemployment Advice Centre, has blasted the Government for failing to provide support to Bolton youths desperate to get back to work. Denise said: "If Jodi doesn't accept this new job, then he will not be able to claim allowance for up to 26 weeks.

"But the train fare to Liverpool each day will be £5 - and he'll need the tools of the trade. There is a gaping hole in the system.

"It is unfair that people say that the youths of Bolton don't want to work. How on earth do people expect them to get there?"

David Crausby said he is trying to reform the jobs system.

Mr Crausby told the BEN: "It is a problem but it is not the first time that I have come across this.

"I am concerned about it. Strictly speaking, Jodi should be able to apply for a crisis loan, but I know crisis loans don't cover travel - only the need to exist. I am eager to bridge the gap between long-term unemployment and a new job."

Jodi, of Skagen Court, said: "I don't want a handout. I can't afford to miss this opportunity - but I also can't afford to travel to Liverpool."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.

Archive Home