voluntary work

Christopher

You don't mention which benefit this is in connection with but I assume that you are receiving ESA.

There is no specific requirement for an ESA claimant to notify the DWP if they start voluntary work, however, if your doing so calls into question the validity of your claim (see below) and you have not informed the DWP then it may count against you.

Can the DWP become aware of you doing this, probably not directly, but you cannot ignore the possibility of someone you know or are acquainted with, reporting you to the DWP.

The primary issue with you working, either as a volunteer or through the Permitted Work scheme, is whether your doing so contradicts any of the limitations that have resulted in your current award. As an example, if you were placed in the Support Group because of Social Anxiety and you volunteered in a charity shop dealing with customers, then this would be a clear contradiction.

This is often a difficult situation for claimants, I doubt that any of us would pass up the chance to take a positive step towards improving our conditions, but there are negative aspects that you need to be aware of, if there is no contradiction then this move is certainly something to be encouraged.

Best of luck

Gordon