AN unemployed man claims that Benefits Agency rules are hindering his attempts to find work instead of helping him.

Nick Devaney, aged 27, a qualified graphic designer, has been out of work for six months.

But Nick, of Hatherleigh Walk, Breightmet, says that to get back into the graphic design business, he needs to be conversant with two new programmes for Mac computer operators.

"If I knew the programmes I could apply for thousands of jobs," he said.

A one week course in these new programmes is held at a college in Reading.

Nick's brother has offered to cover the costs of the course, his travel, and his accommodation for the week.

But when Nick approached the Benefits Agency, staff were adamant that his benefit would be stopped for one week if he enrols on the course.

"They say it's because for that week I'm not available for employment even though what I am effectively doing is improving my chances of getting a job," he protested.

Now Nick says that he will have to give up the opportunity to do the course.

"It's mad. I'm trying to get myself back into work and off benefits and their bureaucracy and rules will be keeping me on benefit," he said.

Nick used to run a graphic design business but moved into back stage theatre work when his business collapsed two years ago.

He says work in the theatre is seasonal and permanent jobs are hard to come by.

"I want to get back into the permanent work while I have the chance but the Benefits Agency is stopping me - forcing me onto benefit and into temporary work. I don't know which way to turn," he said.

A Benefits Agency spokesman said: "The situation is that when he returns from his course he should go into the job centre the next day to say he is available for work and they will generate a cheque for him. It will only be a few days late.

"Payments are never made in advance. As long as he signs on immediately on his return he will get his money two to three days later. That's the way it operates."

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