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Universal Credit: Commitment to seek work

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1 month 3 weeks ago #295133 by Tommy
I am currently in receipt of NS ESA.

I have completed Form ESA 50.

Some time after doing so, I underwent a telephone interview to assess my health with a doctor from the DWP.

I am still waiting for a decision from the DWP as to whether I am fit for work or to be included in the WRAG or included in the Support Group. I'm still in the assessment phase.

Recently, I made a claim for Universal Credit to cover my housing costs.

I have been interviewed by my local Job Centre, with a view to making a commitment to look for work.

I do not feel sufficiently healthy to do so.

Given that I am still in the assessment phase of NS ESA, can the Job Centre refuse to pay me Universal Credit if I don't commit to look for work?
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1 month 3 weeks ago #295144 by David
Replied by David on topic Universal Credit: Commitment to seek work
Hi Tommy,

I understand that you are in the assessment phase of New Style ESA awaiting the outcome of your WCA.
The Commitment you are referring to is not a Commitment to look for work it is a Claimant Commitment which the vast majority of unwell claimants including those in the LCWRA or Support Group have to agree. It was something incorporated by the DWP in the design of UC so as to replace the concept of Benefit Entitlement which was the case before with Income Support etc. For most people accepting the Claimant Commitment means clicking the green button on the UC phone account.
For you the Work Coach at the Jobcentre will be talking about work preparation if in the future you are no longer unwell. So no one should be talking about you looking for jobs at present.

David

Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems
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