HELP!WFI for ESA appointment

I have a WFI work focused interview appointment from the local job centre on 10th Oct - I wrote to the office last week (g'td next day post) asking them to confirm I must still attend as I'm appealing the ESA decision not to place me in the support group.

I asked for a response in writing to confirm I must still attend - but nothing as yet - I phoned them today (071013) and they said they would pass the request to the interviewee to deal with it - what should i do if they don't confirm in writing before 10th Oct whether I should attend?

If I hear nothing from them before 10th Oct am I legally bound to attend and if I do nothing more as of now is it likely my benefits will be affected - if so do I have any redress as I have contacted them twice now.

Hope someone can help as getting close to the date ....

Big thanks

Marshbr

Hi Marshbr,

I'm afraid that you are required to attend WFIs while awaiting appeal if you are requested to do so. Some JobCentre advisers will agree to defer these until a decision is made, some will hold the WFIs on the phone. It is even, theoretically, possible to have them carried out in your own home - but I don't think I have ever heard of this actually happening! These actions are totally at the discretion of the adviser, the claimant does not have any right to demand them.

Do I have to attend WFIs while I appeal?

WFIs are supposed to take account your limitations and impairments, you might find it more effective to phone and speak to your adviser directly and explain why you would find it difficult to undertake any WFIs. If you do not get agreement that you do not need to attend, you should be aware that not turning up could risk your benefit being sanctioned.

Changes to ESA Sanctions