Lcwra

Paulbee1122

Good Evening guys.

I suffer pretty bad with fibromiologa and arthritis, and bouts of depression. I have been on uc 4 months now.

I put in my first sick note today for 4 weeks as feeling really unwell. There's no way I'm right for work.

I asked my work coach could I miss tomorrows work search appointment or have a telephone call.

He stated we don't as a rule do this but we can call tmr but our main goal is to get you back into work ASAP. He said I expect you to attend in person next week or maybe face sanctions.

He has obviously disregarded my 4 week sick note, do sick notes these mean nothing, and can my work coach just disregard what my GP has wrote.

I quite well educated and previously worked in management. My work coach seems to think I should also accept any job. For instance last week he organised a job for pot washing at my local cafe for 35 hours a week. OK I respect pot washers and the do a good job. But I have quite bad athretis in my hands, so pot washing is out of the question.

This situation is causing myself more stress. I'm 52 and this is the first time I have claimed anything. It feels they are trying to get myself of their figures at any cost.

poppy123456

Unfortunately when claiming UC you're treated as a job seeker until a decision is made on your work capability assessment. A work coach has discretion to either reduce or turn off commitments, some do and others don't.

If you're unable to attend appointments in person you can ask for a reasonable adjustment for telephone appointments. You need to make sure you continue to provide fit notes without any gaps until a decision is made on your work capability assessment.

Paulbee1122

Thanks Poppy

I put in an initial note 2 weeks ago but my Dr today give me a further month after a 2 week follow up.

I suppose I need to ask for that lcwra form ASAP. And then see how the assessment goes.

Kimi87

The WCA process can be started by your work coach on day 29 after putting a Fit note in.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/universal-credit-if-you-have-a-disability-or-health-condition-quick-guide/universal-credit-if-you-have-a-disability-or-health-condition#work-capability-assessment

poppy123456

It can often take several months for a decision on the WCA once the referral is made.