Work focused interview/ work programme question?

mutley_muppet

Hi,

I am asking this question for a friend, so please excuse me if the terms I use are not correct.

My friend claims ESA & DLA and he has been sent a letter to go to a local jobcentre for a work focused interview?

He has physical and mental health problems so he is feeling very anxious about attending the interview, but knows that he has to.

I have just told him to explain as clearly as possible his condition and what he can manage.

He is worried he will be forced to do a work programme type scheme which he doesnt feel he could manage?

I just wanted to check if the work programme scheme is compulsary? I understand that once he is signed up to something like this he has to attend or his benefits could be stopped, but is it compulsary that he has to agree to go on a scheme like this at all?

I would tell him to go to the Citizens Advice Bureau for advice but I know he would struggle to physically get there.
Thanks in advance,
MM.

rogerblack

In short.
WFIs are short ~15 minute interviews intended to see if there are any courses or ... that can be recommended that will improve your ability to get into work.
They are not assessments of health.
People can be referred onto the work program - but depending on the condition, the provider may not even bother seeing them.
My total involvement over a 2 year work program was 2 3 minute phone calls.

He can be required to go on the work program.
He can be required to do pretty much anything but actually applying for normal paid work, or doing normal paid work.

This should be 'reasonable' - in light of his condition, but if it's not, then problems arise as if they refuse to reconsider this - there is no simple appeal procedure apart from failing to do something and being sanctioned.

If you get people who understand and believe in the disability - there should be no issue.

mutley_muppet

Thank you Roger, that's really helpful. I will pass that information on.

As he struggles to communicate, I will suggest that he writes a few things down to take with him to help him if he is struggling.

Horseunderwater

If your friends health is so bad - they should consider a late appeal to get into the Support group of ESA.

mutley_muppet

Thank you I will mention that to him.