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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

  • If you ask me,  the work program is punitive and infantilising.  We need support to help us get work, but it should be at a pace that suits us and should not be compulsory.  Remember, most people want meaningful employment, but disability and other factors can create obstacles. Currently, we have a divide and rule situation: you either can or can't work. But this is too black and white and does not take account of invisible disabilites which affect us differently on different days.  Under law, reasonable adjustments should be made. For example, the Job Centre should be flexible and take account of our needs and not force us to undertake tasks that would cause us mental distress. Sadly, what happens on the ground often falls short of what is supposed to happen.

    I have a very strong 'work-ethic' (to use a word that I do not like, but which obviously applies to me). I am very motivated and love to be busy. I am conscientious and want to contribute.  However, if I have to do something because I am forced to, I tend to become defiant and non-cooperative.  My parents have long ago found this out. I only enjoy things that I have chosen to do, which is why I enjoy my voluntary activities. I want paid work too, and receive support with looking for work. This is not compulsory, and I am in control.  Forcing people to do something or else lose benefits is basically slave-labour and should be outlawed

Reply

  • If you ask me,  the work program is punitive and infantilising.  We need support to help us get work, but it should be at a pace that suits us and should not be compulsory.  Remember, most people want meaningful employment, but disability and other factors can create obstacles. Currently, we have a divide and rule situation: you either can or can't work. But this is too black and white and does not take account of invisible disabilites which affect us differently on different days.  Under law, reasonable adjustments should be made. For example, the Job Centre should be flexible and take account of our needs and not force us to undertake tasks that would cause us mental distress. Sadly, what happens on the ground often falls short of what is supposed to happen.

    I have a very strong 'work-ethic' (to use a word that I do not like, but which obviously applies to me). I am very motivated and love to be busy. I am conscientious and want to contribute.  However, if I have to do something because I am forced to, I tend to become defiant and non-cooperative.  My parents have long ago found this out. I only enjoy things that I have chosen to do, which is why I enjoy my voluntary activities. I want paid work too, and receive support with looking for work. This is not compulsory, and I am in control.  Forcing people to do something or else lose benefits is basically slave-labour and should be outlawed

Children
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