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Being on the dole sucks
I want to work!
My name is Liz and I am 22. I’ve been on the dole for over a year and I hate it. I’m young, skilled and lively, but yet I have no job. I lost my job in a bar/restaurant last year due to staff cuts. It was a huge and I mean HUGE shock to be out of work and not be able to find a new job.
When I was doing my Leaving Cert, I had three part time jobs and I loved it; I just loved being so busy. From a young age I have always been independent and able to look after myself - I never asked my parents for anything. I was so proud when I ended up with really good grades in my Leaving Cert.
I don’t go out drinking nor do I smoke and I have never had a lavish life style. I like the simple things and I’m a big believer in saving money as often, and as much as I can. I was saving money each week for Australia (a place I had always wanted to visit and live in), but now that’s on hold.
Because I had lost my job, I had to go on the dole. Before I lost my job I had never heard of the word dole. Going through the doors of the social welfare office every month is just horrible....It seems to depress you and makes you feel worthless; like everyone is looking at you. But most of the people there with me are in the same position as me:they too are jobless by circumstance and not by choice. I wouldn’t be able to survive without the money, for which I am so grateful for, but I would much prefer to be out there working for it.
I am doing a FETAC course now which is in relation to my future career. I am devoting all my time to doing well in it. To be honest, there’s nothing more I can do. My boyfriend works part time and we live together. We are very happy together and make the most of even the little things. But, when I see other people my age abusing money they get from their parents or knowing that their parents will pay for everything, it makes me mad. I feel so young but yet I feel like I am trapped!
I hope that this recession ends soon for all our sakes. I dream of being able to afford the cost of going to university, moving forward in my career, and being able to live with peace of mind.
I am sending out wishes to the universe that I will get a job, and, most importantly, start feeling whole again.
By: Liz
