Hi, I have one of these tomorrow. I have put in an MR to be returned to SG. I already asked for it to be done by phone but was refused. The work coach has agreed that attendance is mandatory, but information offered is voluntary. I have read through the B&W work coach manual - it says that a claimant cannot be sanctioned for not carrying out agreed actions, and yet, the information provided by the DWP in advance of the interview definitely mentions sanctions for not participating, 'If you don't do these things (work related activity) and you don't have a good reason you may lose some of your payment'. Is this just sharp practise on their part?
I believe that the guide is referring to any actions that might result from the meeting, not the meeting itself. If you have been told that attendance is mandatory then you must go or you risk your ESA being sanctioned until you do.
Gordon
Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems
