To ask Her Majesty’s Government under what circumstances, if any, they impose benefit sanctions on persons lacking literacy, numeracy and computer skills, or those with language, communication or mental health problems; and if sanctions are imposed on such groups whether they plan to discontinue them.
Answered on
15 September 2015
The decision to temporarily halt a jobseeker’s benefit payment is always thoroughly considered and is not something we do lightly.
It is a consequence of a jobseeker not meeting the conditions attached to receiving their benefits without good reason.
Jobseekers are only ever asked to meet reasonable requirements, taking into account their circumstances and capability. The requirements and consequences are clearly communicated with them throughout their claim and set out in their Claimant Commitment.
The vast majority of jobseekers fulfil their requirements and do not receive a sanction.