‘Good reason’ why a sanction should not be applied

A sanction will not be applied if you can show that you had good reason for your action that led to a sanction being considered. Good reason is not defined in legislation, but will depend on your circumstances. The guidance for decision makers suggests that the following factors should be taken into account when deciding whether a claimant has good reason for their actions:

• If you are a victim of domestic violence you can be treated as available for and actively seeking work for up to 13 weeks. Even after that 13-week period a fear of domestic violence may mean you have good reason for refusing or leaving employment;

• If you have a mental health condition or disorder, or if you are homeless;

• If you are a victim of bullying or harassment at work, or you left your job because you were a whistle blower.

Civil and public services union PCS which represents jobcentre and benefits workers, has expressed serious concerns about the new sanctions regime.