Jobseekers now have to account more clearly for their efforts to find work and will be given a weekly timetable of tasks to complete, as part of the Claimant Commitment. The Claimant Commitment is backed by a strict compliance regime to ensure jobseekers do all they can to have the best chance of finding paid work quickly.
The Claimant Commitment is based on the person’s individual circumstances and clearly sets out their responsibilities while job hunting. If a jobseeker does not agree a Claimant Commitment, or stick to it, Jobseeker’s Allowance will not be paid.
For Jobseeker's Allowance claimants, Jobcentre Plus advisers and claimants agree a Jobseeker's Agreement Claimant Commitment, based on their individual circumstances, which will clearly set out the jobseeker's responsibilities to find work. They will renew the commitment on a regular basis. Those who fail to comply with their responsibilities risk losing benefit, i.e benefit sanctions.
Anyone who is sanctioned should seek advice as soon as possible. For free advice call GAIN on 0800 801 1011.
You can appeal a sanction or a benefit decision yourself with the help of the Appeals Pack.
Background Information
Universal Credit replaces income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support, Working Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit and Housing Benefit and it will be rolled out nationally between 2014 and 2017.
Further information on welfare reform can be found here.