ESA and partner's WFI

MrsFlu

Hi

I've been on ESA (WR) for years and am claiming for my husband as well. My husband has been invited to a WFI.

He's 57 and been unemployed for 15 years. This being the case he's started a business which, currently, is making a loss. He's rather miffed at being invited to this interview since they know he has his business although, of course, he's keeping within the hours permitted.

I probably shouldn't ask, but does anyone know what sort of thing goes on at a WFI and what sort of questions they ask? My husband'll blow a gasket if they start telling him how to look for work or courses he can go on. He's committed to making his business a going concern and desperate to get us off benefits (not that they're interested).

marliepanda

Is there a reason that he has been unemployed 15 years?

If not, then really he should be working alongside starting a business (as most do until the business are viable), especially if it's making a loss, in my opinion. I'm not surprised they're looking at his case closely if he's been unemployed 15 years (if there's not a reason) and now running a business making a loss.

MrsFlu

He's American and initially (ie for the first 9 years here) there were problems with his visa (the HO lost his paperwork, that sort of thing). Now he has right to work but has been out of things for so long it's doubtful he'd get employment (cabinet/upholstery business).

Bogalot

Whilst blowing that gasket perhaps he could be reminded who has paid for his lifestyle for the past however many years.

xylophone

(ie for the first 9 years here)

What about the last six?


Blowing a gasket? Crumbs! If you expect to claim benefits for him, then he/you will need to comply with the rules/requirements!

Bananas123

hello,

they gather details from you, and then start a "action plan" or correct term.

then they may suggest activity towards "helping" you back to work etc,

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it's basically not much different from being sat across the table from a job centre person a la jobseekers allowance, but instead of "seeking work", it's activity to "enable you to seek work", like volunteering, basic education, skills courses.

but he can't go in "guns blazing" (nationality pun), or with a "i am not doing that" attitude, because you have to do it to recieve the benefit.

that is what has been my experience of,

regards

Bananas123

sorry, need to add:

they are not there to be !!!!!!!s to you, or force you to do things etc etc

it is much much smoother and better to be compliant, and then try "brain storm" with them about the activity, baring in mind, you might have to see them up to more regularly then you have been doing anyway...

they could be a really nice, helpful person, for example and there might be something of benefit there, like if he would like to improve I.T. skills and whatnot.