‘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 whistleblower.