Work-focused interview in Support Group

Hi,
This is my first post on the site, so please forgive any major faux pas I might make.
I have been in the Support Group for nearly a year now after a mandatory reconsideration (not carried out according to the DWP's guidelines and procedures, but my position in the Support Group has been confirmed in writing). Now I've received a letter giving me an appointment for a Work-Focused Interview at my local Jobcentre Plus. All the paperwork I have in connection with my ESA claim, and the information on the Benefits and Work website, says these interviews are voluntary for those in the Support Group - and the word "voluntary" appears in the reference number at the bottom of the letter - but the way it is worded suggests otherwise. There is no use of the word "compulsory" or reference to sanctions, but I'm not certain how I should approach this. Essentially, I'd like to refuse to attend without putting either my place in the Support Group or my ESA payments in jeopardy.
I'm shaking as I type this, and feel sick and giddy - all because of this wretched letter. Any information or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for reading, and I hope to hear something soon - I want to get this sorted out as soon as possible.

Hi,

Welcome to Benefits and Work

If your forum name is also your real name, you may wish to change it to maintain some anonymity.

This can be done quite easily by following the instructions on this FAQ :

My full name is showing, how can I stop it?

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Don't worry you are not alone !!

Many of our members who are in The Support Group have received such letters.

Gordon has written a post summarising information regarding this scenario in :

The Spotlight Area.

As advised, you can challenge them to ascertain exactly "what" the interview is pertaining to, and whether it is Mandatory or Voluntary.

You can then make an informed decision on whether to attend.

Further information can be seen in : This Topic and from the links included therein to other associated topics.

You will see more detail with respect to DWP Decision Makers Guidance and ESA Regulations on not having to take part in WRA/WFI if in The SG, and " Reasonable Adjustments" for disabled people as covered under The Equality Act 2010. (EA2010)

bro58

Hi bro58,
Thanks for the info. I'll get my displayed name changed (I didn't realise my full name would appear: I just expected my user name to show) and call the Jobcentre Plus about this appointment. I hope to be able to add something positive to my post later on - wish me luck!
TheMR

Hi again,
The latest: I called Jobcentre Plus and they seemed a bit confused by my assertion that I was in the Support Group, saying "we've got no record of that here," but when I emphasised I'd got two letters from them confirming this they checked my details at their end and told me the appointment was voluntary, I didn't need to attend and that they would cancel it. Relief! Hopefully there won't be any more glitches in future, but I'm not confident. I'm currently breathing a bit easier, though.
Thanks again for pointing me in the right direction, bro58.