What is a work-focused interview?
A work-focused interview is supposed to help move you into paid employment by looking at what you can already do and what further support you might need to help you progress into work.
Interviews can be held at any time whilst you are subject to a work-focused interview requirement, but they can be deferred or cancelled if they are inappropriate or unlikely to be helpful. There is no right of appeal about whether you have to attend a work-focused interview, but you can make a complaint. The DWP should make reasonable adjustments for your health issues or disability when holding work-focused interviews.
When do I have to attend a work-focused interview?
You may be asked to attend work-focused interviews whilst you are in the assessment phase of ESA.
If you are placed in the work-related activity group (WRAG) following your Work Capability Assessment you can be asked to attend work-focused interviews as part of your work-related activity. If you are on New-Style ESA, this may be called ‘work preparation’ rather than work-related activity.
If you are in the support group, you do not have to attend work-focused interviews, as you cannot be given any work-related requirements. You can still participate in them voluntarily if you would like to.
If you are claiming income-related ESA, your partner may also be asked to attend work-focused interviews, depending on their circumstances.
What happens during a work-focused interview?
A work coach from the Jobcentre will discuss your work history and qualifications, the actions you could take to help you eventually find work and the support you might need to carry these out.
The interview can be waived if you are about to start work or are likely to be starting work. It can be deferred if your condition means that the interview would be inappropriate at that time.
What happens if I don’t attend a work-focused interview?
Failure to attend or take part in this interview without good cause – for example, being ill or having a hospital appointment that it would be unreasonable to rearrange - will result in your ESA being reduced. (See ESA sanctions).
