JSA sanctions

JSA sanctions

Sanctions against claimants have reached record levels and it is very clear that they are being imposed for the tiniest deviation from agreements or even for no good reason whatsoever. They are now affecting not just JSA claimants but also ESA claimants – particularly those forced onto the work programme.Below we’ve given our top tips for avoiding sanctions and some of the most outrageous examples of unfair sanctions that we have come across.We also explain how to sue the DWP or work programme provider if they make an activity mandatory and it is unreasonable because of your health condition or disabilityBut we’d very much like to hear from you about your experience of sanctions, or threats of sanctions, and also any advice you can give fellow claimants on how to avoid or challenge unfair sanctions.What is a sanction?A sanction is a term used by the DWP. It means that your benefit can be reduced by a fixed amount or to nil.A sanction lasts for a fixed period depending on which level it is. The level will depend on what it is alleged you have done.A sanction decision can be disputed, but very often you will be without payment whilst you do so.For more about sanctions see here if you are in receipt of ESA.