Job centre interview while being a full time carer

sam89

Hello, please help!

I wanted to ask a question about carers allowance. I am 58 years old and care for my disabled daughter and receive the highest PIP level as she is physically and mentally very dependant, she is 18 and in full time education. Recently the job centre called me for an interview and the lady said I can start looking for work while my daughter is at school. I explained to her how strenuous it was for me to look after my daughter especially during the nights as she wakes up 5-6 times and needs changing nappies as well, so I cannot possibly work during the time she is at school. She pushed me and said that I could still find work and do deliveries etc and has called me after 3 months. This is really worrying me as I am in no position to work because I already care for my daughter, I also explained to her how my husband is also disabled and needs looking after during the day I cannot take on another job, but she said I could. please advise me as to what I can do in this matter? Can they force me to work? How long will they call me for these interviews? Regards, Sarah.

poppy123456

The adviser that you seen is completely wrong. They can't force you into work whilst you're claim Carers Allowance. You will still need to attend these appointments otherwise you could be sanctioned but they can't force you wo work. If it was me then i'd ring DWP and ask to speak to the manager and tell them what's happened and give the name of the person you spoke to that day. This is ridiculous nonsense! I hope you get it sorted. Good luck.

sam89

poppy123456 said:

The adviser that you seen is completely wrong. They can't force you into work whilst you're claim Carers Allowance. You will still need to attend these appointments otherwise you could be sanctioned but they can't force you wo work. If it was me then i'd ring DWP and ask to speak to the manager and tell them what's happened and give the name of the person you spoke to that day. This is ridiculous nonsense! I hope you get it sorted. Good luck.

Thank you for your reply! 

My husband is also mentally ill and doesn't let agent the house without me me, she suggested I do deliveries as a job and take my husband with me!! While I drive?? He hasn't back pain and all sorts - why would she say something like that? 

Pippa_Alumni

Welcome to the community, @sam89! I just wanted to say that I'm so sorry to hear about your experiences, it certainly sounds like you have your hands full with caring and that the last thing you need is to be forced into work. Do keep us updated and let us know if you have any further issues.