What does a DWP Back to Work session involve?

EltonJohnFan

Hi all,

I've been claiming Contributions Based Jobseekers Allowance for just over six months now after being made redundant from my last job. On Monday I had a review with the Department for Work and Pensions and they've stated that I'm entitled to claim Income Based Jobseekers Allowance from that point forward as I meet the conditions to do so but that they're "directing" me to attend a Back to Work session tommorow at 2:00pm. I was told that I MUST attend this session and I'm really worried incase I'm in some sort of trouble as the advisor was a little off with me. Can you tell me a little bit more about what this session might involve? I'm very badly disabled and I think partly because of my disabilities it's been a lot harder than it might otherwise have been to find work. I've really been trying my hardest to find work but there's just nothing out there and it's now came to the stage when I'm personally close to just giving up but I'm determined to keep going, for now at least.

I've been told that I shouldn't claim Jobseekers Allowance and claim for other benefits due to receiving Disability Allowance and other Premiums etc. I personally though would rather claim the Jobseekers Allowance because I do want to find work and I don't want to be stuck on benefits all my life. I just wish the advisors would be a little more lenient with me as some of them are very hardline and I get the feeling they don't believe I'm really looking for work. I am as I say really nervous about this Back to Work session tommorow as I don't know what will happen or what's involved and my worst nightmare would be to attend and be stuck with the real hardcore people that are definitely not looking for work as I've passed these people hanging around outside the Jobcentre on many occasions drinking, smoking, swearing and so on. I appreciate your help, thank you.

RazWaz

Take a record of all your jobsearchs with you, as they will probably want to see this. If you can prove to them that you really are trying to find a job then they shouldn't have any problems.

joebolton

It is a mandatory part of the JSA regime, everyone is directed to attend a BTWS , normally around week 9 of their claim.
If you are not comfortable in a group session, due to your disability, phone them in the morning and request an individual BTWS.
You will be asked at the session to formulate a 3 point plan to help move yourself back in to work.This is towards the end of the session.The session itself is a presentation around conditionality around receiving benefit, but also some interesting info about support available in your locale.
The session depends on a good presenter, and a reasonable audience.
I think you will be OK, and hope you get some support from the session, either individually or in the group if you decide to go ahead.

dazzadub

its nothing major, they talk to you about options out there, training etc and also give you a work vouvher asell which is an incentive for employer etc.

basically a chat about what you want and where u looking, they will help you look for work, and show you the options that are avaliable

its a just a more focused job search with the jobcentre. also this is point where you get work grants and adf aswell