i know this is long but stick with me for minute, i know im not the only one in hard times ,but someone might be able to help me out abit and give some advice, i lost my job just over a year ago in the construction industry, good trade that i spent 5 years learning and an another 3 qualified at, up until about 3 weeks ago i was recieving job seekers allowance in which time i was refused a portion of rent allowance because my girlfriend earns just above minimum wage, i was basically told go live her shallow pocket , ( i only know the girl 3 years)after tightening up and bein a bit wise we managed, just. now my allowance is switched to benefit, the first week there was 30 euros all for me in the post office, the next week it was 131 euros, followed by a letter stating my girlfriend earns enough for them to cut me back, i appealed that day, no word back yet, so i went to collect my 131 quid yesterday, but again not to be it was 74 this time, i went to my social welfare office to get some answers, but they were on strike,(and im expected to feel sorry for these people) so if anyone else is bein shafted this badly or know anyone that is, whats the next action to take, or is it rent and beans on toast till things get better, i would leave the country but its hard to save off 74 euros when it doesnt even cover the gas an electric, thats what you get for bein honest with these people, cheers