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Work Program.

Bloodheart

Does anyone know what our rights are while within the Work Program (and larger benefits system such as Job Seekers Allowence)? 

I've had multiple problems with the Job Centre and New Deal - general prejudice and ignorance from advisors, being told I have to phone to appy for benefits (I can't use a telephone) and refused any help unless I 'get over it', being told I'm mentally incapable, verbally abused, forced off JSA and onto ESA, and being forced into work placements I was either unable to fulfill or that put me at serious risk. All that is on top of the other problems unemployed people have with the job centre. Now I've just started on the Work Program and I'm terrified of what's going to happen. 

For example what do I do if they try to make me apply for jobs I'm unable to do due to autism? They mentioned classes involving role play or social speaking which I simply cannot do, what happens if they claim this is my being unwilling to participate in mandatory classes? They seem to make no allowences for disabled clients, so I'm worried they'll threaten to stop benefits if I'm unable to do something. 

No one has ever been able to tell me what the job centre can or cannot make me do, what to do if they threaten to remove my benefits, or whether I can refuse to deal with staff who are openly prejudice towards me. What are my rights? 

Parents

  • I am mother of high-functioning Autistic who desperately wants a job in a very specific field (he has a Masters degree in this field!). I actually spoke to DWP first, and we applied for his Jobseekers online, which meant that DWP assessed his claim before the Job Centre got involved. DWP were incredibly helpful which is amazing! Job Centre is really not qualified to deal with disabled 'clients', and they gave totally contradictory information to DWP's info. I attend all interviews with my son to 'fight' his corner as, so if you have someone who can go with you to deal with advisers/mentor you/fight your corner, that would really help.  Then insist on receiving support from a DEA - Job Centre should have given you an appointment with DEA (Disability Employment Adviser) at the outset. DWP would be my recommendation to speak to first, to remain on Jobseekers rather than ESA. At least now no-one is trying to force my son to work in a role that is not suitable for him but he couldn't have got through it all without my help, so do try to get someone on side!

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  • I am mother of high-functioning Autistic who desperately wants a job in a very specific field (he has a Masters degree in this field!). I actually spoke to DWP first, and we applied for his Jobseekers online, which meant that DWP assessed his claim before the Job Centre got involved. DWP were incredibly helpful which is amazing! Job Centre is really not qualified to deal with disabled 'clients', and they gave totally contradictory information to DWP's info. I attend all interviews with my son to 'fight' his corner as, so if you have someone who can go with you to deal with advisers/mentor you/fight your corner, that would really help.  Then insist on receiving support from a DEA - Job Centre should have given you an appointment with DEA (Disability Employment Adviser) at the outset. DWP would be my recommendation to speak to first, to remain on Jobseekers rather than ESA. At least now no-one is trying to force my son to work in a role that is not suitable for him but he couldn't have got through it all without my help, so do try to get someone on side!

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