Is WRAG time-limited before work?

You mentioned Bro,
"it is possible for a claimant to stay in either group indefinitely"
I was unaware of that. I thought the 12 month rule applies to all claimants.??

Thank you. You have cleared up some of the things that were puzzling me. I was just unsure about how the system is currently playing out and it seems that with continual assessment that you could be in WRAG or SG indefinitely if you still fulfill the criteria set for either group. Taking into account A-Tos/DWP re-assessments being so regular it is going to be an on-going process.

The last part of my query is regarding the number of WRAG claimants who are being 'advised' to work part-time or self-employed part-time. Whilst it may be OK for those who have working partners to work part-time, people like myself who are single, and even with top-ups could not live off this income. I was formerly on permitted work and this no where near made even pocket money wages. I wondered why so many people are being advised to do part-time work? Is it to make the figures look better? I know I am too ill to work but the constant worry of assessments and appeals is frightening. I even discussed with my family my trying to do some kind of work and they were appalled and said I would be dead within a week and in all probability they are right, plus I would have to attend the JC with someone and to interviews!! I know a lot of people are going through what I am and I feel for them, too.

Thanks for your responses, guys.

Stephano,

It is only contribution-based ESA in the WRAG that is time-limited. The difference between contribution based and income related ESA is explained in our Guide to Understanding ESA.

TCP, people are advised to try self-employed work because work programme providers get paid a lot of money for successfully persuading them to do so and there are very few employed positions to try to get people onto. I don't think the well being of the claimant is often a primary concern.

The Ouch Too forum is a good place for discussing government policy:

www.ouchtoo.org/

Steve



Steve

Thank you, Steve, I think you're right.

There is so much going on it's hard to keep up!

Cheers

TCP