Unannounced DWP employee at the door!

nat21luv

Hello all.


As the title suggests, a DWP employee arrived unannounced at my door today asking to come in. I suggested that it wasn't a good time as I had visitors and asked what it was regarding. She assured me that everything was ok, just needed to clear up some paperwork and she has rearranged to visit again in the morning.


Any idea what this could be to do with as although she told me not to worry, I am quite worried! I've never had someone turn up at my door before and I have a 6 month review at my local Job Centre for IS next week. Why wouldn't they just phone if it was to just 'clear up some paperwork'?! :eek:

poppasmurf_bewdley

Did the caller have ID? Have you rung the DWP to see if the caller is genuine?

nat21luv

Yes, she had ID and she is genuine, although the DWP couldn't tell me why she was calling.

pmlindyloo

Yes, do check ID and confirm with the appropriate department.

Having said that unannounced calls can be made.

e.g. http://www.westlothian.gov.uk/917/592/?srid=2225850

The usual reason is because of an investigation. Difficult to explain further as we don't know your circumstances except that you are on IS.

Do you want to give us more details?

But as a 'for instance'. Someone claims IS because they are a single parent and have a child under 5 years. However, it has been discovered that someone else is using their address for their mail. The investigation would be to see if the claimant was living alone. (Just one example - many more)

The usual advice is not to worry if everything is above board.

nat21luv

Im not sure what other information I can offer, Im a single parent of 2 with 1 under 5. I don't have a partner and have been single for the last 2.5years. My ex does still have some mail arrive here but nothing of importance I don't think and he's not named on the electoral register at my address.


Thank you for your replies, most appreciated.

PlymouthMaid

Doubt there is anything to worry about. Most of these gov. depts. operate random visiting without notice in some form.

RAS

nat21luv wrote: »

My ex does still have some mail arrive here but nothing of importance I don't think and he's not named on the electoral register at my address.

Experian have been cross-checking things like single person's CT discount against addresses at which more than one person is listed as having bank accounts etc.

You cannot force your ex to move their mailing address but may need to explain why you have allowed it to continue happening.

nat21luv

I really hope that that is all it is, Im worrying myself silly over it. Im suffering with anxiety at the moment and this has sent me on a downwards spiral today, I know I wont sleep tonight

help4help2013

i know it can be hard not to worry but it might only be a random compliance check to check your getting the right amount of benefit

pmlindyloo

nat21luv wrote: »

I really hope that that is all it is, Im worrying myself silly over it. Im suffering with anxiety at the moment and this has sent me on a downwards spiral today, I know I wont sleep tonight

Instead of worrying about it be a little proactive and get your evidence ready for when the next visit takes place.

Where does your ex live? Get any evidence that he lives there. Tenancy agreement/that kind of thing - CT letter/ bank statement/utility bill.

I do agree with RAS - his mail should not still be coming to your house. Ring him and get him to change all his personal details to the correct address.

clarryd

I would give the DWP office a ring to confirm that the person who has been to your door is actually from them and not a scam caller.