Accompanying someone to the jobcentre

Does anyone know the current DWP regulations regarding accompanying someone to the jobcentre? We used to have a right to do so, then this was suspended due to covid. We have someone who is being summoned in weekly and bullied, and it's affecting their mental health. But the jobcentre security isn't allowing anyone in unless they have an appointment

Hi,

This bullying performance should also be brought to the attention of local media/ newspapers/ press etc.

Who ever is giving out this directive of bullying tactics, in order for disabled claimants not to be able to attend interviews, and for them to lose out on their rightfully benefits, in order to survive in this life. Them and those should be named and shamed, and made accountable for their arrogant and disgraceful antics.

Hi Giselle

Like BIS I have had a look - fairly quickly in my case - on the internet and have found the following relating to Universal Credit. I realise your client may not be on UC but I think what it says about taking someone with you to an appointment will apply to other benefits too. Quoting from the page I found:

"If you want to take a friend or relative with you
You can take a friend or relative with you to your interview if you need support.

Tell the DWP before your interview and explain your reasons. They have to let you take someone with you.

You can contact the DWP on your Universal Credit journal. If you have problems doing this, call the Universal Credit helpline:

Universal Credit helpline"

for the page this is from please click www.citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits/unive...ere%27s%20no%20extra

I'm sure this will also apply to taking a welfare rights - or other official helper, - with you. In the first instance, if your client agrees, can I suggest you contact the Jobcentre and arrange for you - or a colleague - to be added to the appointment the client has?

I am sorry your client feels bullied and this is affecting their mental health. It's a matter of judgement for you as to whether you mention this when you ask to be added into the appointment but it may perhaps be better to secure the appointment first and go along with the client to the appointment where you should get a better idea of the situation and be able to help the client explain how their mental health is being affected by these interviews and their frequency.

Of course if all else fails then an official complaint, perhaps contacting the MP as well, may well be necessary but I would recommend you contact the Jobcentre as I suggested first.

Hope this helps

Kind regards

Mr B