As I understand it..........
"There are two types of Jobseeker's Allowance, 'contribution-based Jobseeker's Allowance' and 'income-based Jobseeker's Allowance'.
Contribution-based Jobseeker's Allowance
You may be entitled to claim contribution-based Jobseeker's Allowance if you have paid enough National Insurance contributions (NICs).
Jobcentre Plus can pay this for up to 182 days. Generally, self-employed contributions will not help you qualify for contribution-based Jobseeker’s Allowance."
Contribution-based Jobseeker's Allowance is not means-tested so savings would not be taken into account
However, if you have made insufficient NICs, you would (dependant on living and financial circumstances) still be eligible for 'Income-Based Jobseeker's Allowance' and/or 'Income Support'.
Both Income-Based Jobseeker's Allowance and Income Support ARE means tested, and you may not be eligible if you have savings of £16,000 or more (they will ask for proof of you finances and investigate them)
You may also be eligible for financial assistance under the New Deal if you have been out of work for 6 months or more.
.................but, please bear in mind that the above is a very broad outline, and they would look at your own particular living circumstances and finances for any means-tested benefits. For a start, have a read here:
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/MoneyTax...port/index.htm
I'd suggest you should talk to the Citizen's Advice Bureau/Money Advice Centre or equivalent for your area. These independant bodies would help you with specific guidance in confidence after looking at your situation.
As an aside, there are also ways to disguise your savings if they exceed £16000 and you are hoping to receive the means-tested stuff. For example you might consider transferring the money into your mum's name provided she was gonna be willing to state that the money is rightfully hers if asked.