WRAG WFI Questions askd.....

I recently attended a Work Focussed interview at the jobcentre. It was the first one after I had been moved from the support group to the WRAG despite there being no changes in my circumstances what so ever.

I have written to them asking that they look at the decision again, but haven’t heard anything up to now. It has been ten weeks now and I was told that there is no time limit regarding how long they take to look at a case. That seems fair! As it has taken so long I had no choice but to attend the “interview”.

I don’t want to go into great detail on here about the interview, but it was not good. I have several illnesses and surprisingly enough they take their toll on me and make me ill. From the start of my interview the adviser made it clear that it was some kind of competition as to who was worse off, her or me. The adviser asked me very personal medical questions and made a point of comparing what ever I said to what she had. I felt obliged to answer the questions because I have no idea what they have the right to ask me or not.

But I do feel like this adviser crossed a line. She made a big issue of asking me a very personal question about a certain medical procedure and then questioning my choice. I felt extremely uncomfortable and was very upset by the whole experience.

I have written a complaint letter but I have been delaying sending it. Mainly because I do not know if I have a case or not. Was she well within her rights to ask me such questions or is it not within the bounds of their job to ask me such things.

Please can somebody tell me if this is OK or not. I have done so many searches trying to find info on this, so any help would be appreciated.

Thank you

It is not defined as to what constitutes a 'Work Focused Interview'. However, in myu opinion the clue is in the name! I would certanly feel that te advisor had steppedoutside their remit if I had been questioned in this way.

Work Focussed Interviews



I am sure one of the other mods will also comment and might have more information.

I was appalled to read your post, this person has definately overstepped the boundary, professionally. they should be there to help YOU not discuss their personal life, illness's etc. I would definately complain, but the burden of proof will lie with you, (your word against hers), if you have to attend another interview You should take someone with you.
Rapheal

Hello

Thank you for your replies.

I did actually have my carer with me. But she has a hearing disability. We did it explain this to the adviser who subsequently hid herself behind the screen of her PC and spoke in a lowered voice all the way through the interview, therefore excluding my carer from being involved. I believe this was done intentionally.

Anyway thank you for your help; it has made me feel a lot better. I will now seriously consider complaining.

I am still waiting on the Decision makers to look at my case. It has now been 12 weeks. Would it be reasonable of me to chase it up again?

Thanks

MM

Ms Marple wrote:

Hello

Thank you for your replies.

I did actually have my carer with me. But she has a hearing disability. We did it explain this to the adviser who subsequently hid herself behind the screen of her PC and spoke in a lowered voice all the way through the interview, therefore excluding my carer from being involved. I believe this was done intentionally.

Anyway thank you for your help; it has made me feel a lot better. I will now seriously consider complaining.

I am still waiting on the Decision makers to look at my case. It has now been 12 weeks. Would it be reasonable of me to chase it up again?

Thanks

MM

Hi MM,

Yes, you could give the DWP a "nudge" and request an update.

bro58