Jobseeker’s directions and sanctions

There have been a number of changes to the rules about the conditions you have to meet in order to remain entitled to JSA and the penalties that can be imposed if you do not meet those conditions. These have been introduced in preparation for Universal Credit (see Chapter 1):

A new JSA sanction regime was introduced in 2012. If you are claiming JSA, you may have a sanction applied in a number of different circumstances. You might be sanctioned if you:

• don’t accept or keep to your Claimant Commitment;

• don’t go to a Jobcentre Plus when asked;

• turn down a job or training course;

• don’t apply for any jobs you’re told about;

• don’t take part in any interviews you’re invited to;

• don’t go to any training booked for you or take part in employment schemes; or

• leave your last job or training without good reason or because of your behaviour.

In certain circumstances, your JSA may be disallowed entirely – for example, if you are found not to be actively seeking work. This brings your JSA claim to an end and you will have to make another claim in order to requalify for JSA.