Circumstances where I can resign and still claim unemployment

[markanthony]

Hi,
My wife recently had hip replacement surgery and has also been diagnosed with onset of dementia. As a result this is putting tremendous strain on my ability to work effectively. In this case, would I be able to resign in order to take care my wife and still register for unemployment?

Thanking you

[adrianh]

Are you not able to pay a carer to look after your wife while you are at work?

My wife actually provides this service to people in the UK as we speak.

I would strongly advise you to keep your job and find a suitable carer - you wife will get better but you may not be able to find a job again.

I can find out from my wife whether she can put you in contact with the Cape Town based side of her organization - they might be able to point you in the right direction.

(I have to edit my response - her hip will get better)

[markanthony]

Are you not able to pay a carer to look after your wife while you are at work?

My wife actually provides this service to people in the UK as we speak.

I would strongly advise you to keep your job and find a suitable carer - you wife will get better but you may not be able to find a job again.

I can find out from my wife whether she can put you in contact with the Cape Town based side of her organization - they might be able to point you in the right direction.

(I have to edit my response - her hip will get better)

Thank you for your reply.
No I cannot able to pay a carer, I have looked at that option extensively and regrettably the cost is simply more than I can afford. I am 58 and do not earn a great salary hence my question.

[adrianh]

Have you spoken to Hospice? - maybe they can point you to a cost effective solution.

[SCW]

Try speak to your boss - if he is understanding of your situation he could offer you a voluntary retrenchment. This need not include any package, so no cost to him, but would allow you to claim UIF.