I was recently awarded LCWRA, and on the same day I received the decision in my Universal Credit journal I was contacted by the Jobcentre. During a 30 minute phone call they asked about my health conditions and then informed me that I would be booked in to see a work coach every month.
I explained that I am currently unable to work due to ongoing back pain following an accident, which has also led to anxiety and depression. All of this information was already provided during my LCWRA assessment. Despite this I was told that if I do not attend the appointments it will not look good for me.
I have since received an appointment in my to do list for next month with a work coach, marked as voluntary. I sent a message through my journal explaining that I have been awarded LCWRA and that my decision letter clearly states I am not expected to work or prepare for work. I asked for confirmation that these appointments are indeed voluntary.
They responded confirming that the appointments are voluntary but also said I am expected to attend to see what support they can offer. This has increased my anxiety, as I feel pressured to attend despite my current health conditions and I don’t feel that my situation is being fully understood.
Could you please advise whether declining these appointments will result in them continuing to pursue me, and whether it could have any impact on my benefits?
