Reported To DWP For Having Sex

I suffer from Anxiety and Depression and I claim ESA and PIP Benefits. An Ex boyfriend has reported me to the DWP saying that I’m well and that there is nothing wrong with my health because I occasionally meet a partner for sex. Can I get into trouble for being active sexually if I’m on Benefits for depression? Thanks 

Comments

  • poppy123456
    poppy123456 Online Community Member Posts: 64,463 Championing
    Just because you're claiming benefits because of a health condition it doesn't mean you can't still have a life. What you do in your private life is entirely your decision.
  • salfordgirl4321
    salfordgirl4321 Scope Member Posts: 36 Connected
    Hi Poppy. Thanks for your reply. It’s set my mind at rest a little.
  • rebel11
    rebel11 Online Community Member Posts: 1,678 Pioneering
    If the ex is harassing you, then there are things you can do.  
  • Alex_Alumni
    Alex_Alumni Scope alumni Posts: 7,538 Championing
    I'm really sorry to hear about what's happened @salfordgirl4321 that must've been very distressing.

    It's quite an ignorant and outdated idea that disabled people can't or don't have sex, and if they do then they must be "healthy/have nothing wrong". It's simply not a fact, and I'm glad to see that our members have helped to reassure you. 

    It's also worth noting that disabled people can also feel perfectly healthy while living with their condition or impairment, but that's more a point on language than anything else! 

    If you are worried about your ex boyfriend reporting you, you might like to read more about support for harassment on the victim support website. It's important to remember that if you feel unsafe or in immediate danger, you should call 999 right away.

    If you need us for anything, please don't hesitate to reach out :) 
  • Leo_Aces
    Leo_Aces Community Volunteer Adviser, Scope Member Posts: 104 Contributor
    Hey @salfordgirl4321, I'm sorry to hear that your ex boyfriend did this, rather immature behaviour on his front. 

    As @Alex_Scope says, it's an out dated misconception that disabled people can not enjoy an healthy sex life. It's only a guess but your ex may have decided to contact the DWP, due to a bit of jealousy. I would hope that the person he spoke to may realise this. 

    As others had said, physicality and your receipt of benefits should not be impact by your personal life. 

    Hope you’re feeling a little more reassured?
  • salfordgirl4321
    salfordgirl4321 Scope Member Posts: 36 Connected
    https://forum.scope.org.uk/profile/Alex_Scope

    Thanks for your kind words of reassurance 
  • salfordgirl4321
    salfordgirl4321 Scope Member Posts: 36 Connected
    @Leo_Aces Thanks for your kind words of reassurance 
  • salfordgirl4321
    salfordgirl4321 Scope Member Posts: 36 Connected
    @poppy123456 Thanks for your kind words of reassurance 
  • salfordgirl4321
    salfordgirl4321 Scope Member Posts: 36 Connected
    @Leo_Aces Yes, you were right in thinking that he did this because of his bitterness and jealousy