Statement from DWP on coronavirus (COVID-19)
Monday, 9 March 2020 16:32
The department is fully prepared for all eventualities and has
conducted extensive planning against reasonable worst case
scenarios. I have been in discussions with the chancellor and will
continue to work across government to prepare. If claimants cannot
attend their jobcentre appointment in person because of
self-isolation, work coaches can exercise discretion, so claimants
should engage with them...Request free
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The department is fully prepared for all eventualities
and has conducted extensive planning against reasonable
worst case scenarios. I have been in discussions with the
chancellor and will continue to work across government to
prepare.
If claimants cannot attend their jobcentre appointment in
person because of self-isolation, work coaches can
exercise discretion, so claimants should engage with them
and they will not be sanctioned – as long they let us
know before the appointment.
And as my Rt Hon Friend the Prime Minister set out last
week ‘nobody should be penalised for doing the right
thing’.
That’s why the government’s safety net also extends to
those who are self-employed or who work in the
gig-economy. They can apply for Universal Credit or
new-style ESA. Advances are available for Universal
Credit immediately.
Madame Deputy Speaker, these are exceptional
circumstances and we will support workers to do the right
thing for their health and the protection of public
health.
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