I AM writing to express my concern about the jobseekers allowance, which is available to unemployed people.

This benefit replaced income support on October 7, 1996. With jobseekers allowance comes a lot of rules which you have to obey.

You are given a booklet to fill in to show how you are looking for work.

I was told that I had to apply for at least two jobs a week, telephone two employers a week, visit two employers a week and call at the jobcentre a minimum of three times a week.

This is unrealistic as there are not always the jobs available to apply for, taking into account your age, experience, qualifications, salary and hours.

While on jobseekers allowance you are also forced to attend a one-week course called a jobplan workshop. If you don't go or you miss any of the course, you lose your benefit.

This is unfair. I want to work, but don't appreciate having to explain myself every time I sign on.

P MATTHEWS, Charter Street, Accrington.

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