persona1973 wrote: Thanks all for this - Im reviewing it.
Does anyone know the actual wording used in the DWP agreements with the work providers or what is laid down officially?
This would be most helpful to be able to quote back at them.
Thanks for all advice again.
The following DWP guidance for WP Providers is available
www.gov.uk/government/publications/work-...wp-provider-guidance However this covers JSA and ESA so you would need to make sure you are looking at the relevant sections.
To go back to your original post.
1) Register with recruitment agencies - For the purposes of seeking voluntary work this may be acceptable, for seeking paid employment it would not.
2) Network with Family and Friends for Opportunities - For the purposes of seeking voluntary work this may be acceptable, for seeking paid employment it would not.
3) Look for training and voluntary opportunities - This would be acceptable
4) Preparing and practising job application forms - if this was in the context of a specific job (paid employment) then this would not be acceptable, in the context of voluntary work, or as a general exercise not connected with a specific job then this would be acceptable.
You should also be aware that Voluntary Work has a very specific meaning in regard to ESA, for example; not being paid for doing something does not mean that it is voluntary work, if the activity would normally be paid or it is reasonable to assume that it would be paid then it is probably not voluntary work. Doing work that would normally be paid or where the is a reasonable expectation of payment can lead to a claimants ES claim being closed.
Gordon
