Is it ok to volunteer and do an nvq when on ESA?

sillyducks

Hi all. 
Just joined up and saying hello! I'm Cally

sillyducks

Just looking to find out some information on training and volunteering whilst on ESA (support group).
I m trying to find out if it is ok to volunteer and do an nvq, I have been offered the chance to do the nvq where I voluntee and whilst deciding if  I feel ready and able to attempt wanted to know if it's ok whilst on esa.
It would mem volunteering 16 hours a week but still unpaid and all in house training.
Thanks to anyone that might be able to help. 

CockneyRebel

You should consider whether the work you are doing contravenes the reasons you are claiming ESA.

As an example, a person claiming reduced mobility would not be advised to volunteer to deliver leaflets.

CR

steve51

Hi @sillyducks

Welcome to the gang, I do hope that we can help you ????

I have attached the below info on Benefits on our site.

https://www.scope.org.uk/support/disabled-people/money/benefits

Sam_Alumni

Welcome to the community @sillyducks

@Debbie_Scope can you help?

BenefitsTrainingCo

Hi Cally

As a general rule volunteering does not affect ESA, unless as CockneyRebel points out, it is evidence of a change of circumstances.

Full time study is only allowed for income related ESA if you also get a disability benefit such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP). If your NVQ is level 3 or below and the guided learning hours in the learning agreement are more than 16 per week, then the course will be deemed to be full time and you will need a disability benefit. If it is less than or no more than 16 hours per week of guided learning then it will be part time and there will be no affect on ESA whether or not you get PIP.

I hope this helps.

Best wishes
David