Dan Peters 23 July 2014

Government to be clearer on benefits sanctions

The Government has pledged to work more closely with councils to simplify the way it talks to benefit claimants.

It agreed to work with local authorities to coordinate their approach to deliver housing benefit for claimants who have been sanctioned after an independent review of Jobseekers’ Allowance.

A specialist team will be formed to look at all communications, including claimant letters.

The pledge came after independent expert Matthew Oakley made a series of recommendations.

Employment minister Esther McVey said: ‘Our welfare reforms are helping to transform people’s lives, and we are committed to continuous reform of the sanctions system to ensure it remains fair to taxpayers and claimants.’

Review author Mr Oakley added: ‘The recommendations in my review will ensure that all claimants know when and why a sanction will be applied, and give them the information they need to challenge that decision and claim the financial help that they might need.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Shared Planning Lawyer

Broxbourne Borough Council
Up to £68,506 pa
Are you a focused, enthusiastic team player who enjoys a varied and interesting caseload? Borough Offices, Bishops’ College, Churchgate, Cheshunt
Recuriter: Broxbourne Borough Council

Families First Partnership Manager

Nottingham City Council
£58,602 - £62,109
As Families First Partnership Manager, you will play a pivotal role in leading Nottingham’s Families First approach Nottingham, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Nottingham City Council

Experts at Hand Co-ordinator

London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth
£42,081 - £50,994 per annum
Experts at Hand Co-ordinator
Recuriter: London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth

Governance Professional

North Yorkshire Council
£14.59 to £15.56 per hour
Typically, you will work with an allocation of schools within an agreed geographical area. Northallerton, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Social Worker - Disabled Children's Team

North Yorkshire Council
£39,481 to £44,253 per annum
Our 0–18 Disabled Children’s Service takes a holistic and child-centred approach, working with a diverse range of children Northallerton, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council
Linkedin Banner