DWP-Where Has Basic Etiquette Gone? Are We Just Numbers Now?

Where Has Basic Etiquette Gone? Are We Just Numbers Now?

Have you ever received an overpayment letter from the DWP? If you have, I urge you to pick it up, read it again—word by word.

Now, tell me this: Did you see the word “please” anywhere?

I recently received one demanding a repayment of £3000, and not once did it contain a simple “please” or any form of basic courtesy. Just cold, robotic instructions as if I were nothing more than a case number in their system.

And here’s the kicker—it didn’t even explain what the payment was for! No breakdown, no clear reason, just a demand for money. Imagine receiving a bill and being told to pay up without knowing what it’s even for. Would any other organisation get away with that?

Funny, isn’t it? When we apply for support, we’re expected to navigate endless forms, wait in queues, sanctions and jump through hoops, all while being reminded of “our claimant commitments .” Yet, when they demand money from us—money that, in many cases, was overpaid due to their own errors—there’s not a shred of politeness.

Not a “please,” not a “we understand this may be difficult,” not a hint of respect. Just pay up.

So, I ask again: Where has the etiquette gone? Or do manners only apply when it’s us asking for help?

If you’ve ever received an overpayment letter, go ahead—read it again, word for word. Let me know if you find even a single ounce of courtesy or a proper explanation of why you owe that money.

Because I couldn’t.

I would appreciate if we could make some joint impact by signing my open letter below : u4637104.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u0...54ZpfJdWpGnbxuktg-3D

#DWP #Overpayment #RespectMatters #HumanNotJustANumber

While I agree and have signed, I think it should be a Parliamentary petition, as if enough people sign, MPs are obliged to reply and possibly have a debate on it.

Hi
A good post that serves to reinforce the contempt that politicians and DWP have for those unfortunate enough to fall ill or who are disabled and need support.

A recent change of address notification by me to DWP prompted a review of my New Style ESA claim.

Three letters were generated, one going back to a one week period of payment in April 2024, with the other two advising of what my weekly payments would be, (the same amount that I was receiving prior to my change of address).

However, my weekly rate has been reduced by £11!

Two telephone calls to DWP failed to receive an explanation of why this is (when I eventually got through)and, so far, my follow up letter to DWP two weeks ago requesting an explanation has yet to receive a response!

They really do treat people appallingly!