Committees

Benefit sanctions policy beyond the Oakley review

Inquiry

Benefit sanctions involve the suspension of benefit payments for a set period, where claimants fail to meet certain conditions, such as attendance at Jobcentre appointments or participation in mandatory work schemes. The sanctions regimes for both Jobseekers Allowance (JSA) and Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) were strengthened by the Welfare Reform Act 2012 (external site).

Matthew Oakley conducted an independent review of JSA sanctions in relation to mandatory back to work schemes (i.e. principally sanctions affecting JSA claimants participating in the Work Programme). The Oakley Review (PDF 566KB) was limited; this inquiry is broader. It considers ESA sanctions, including whether the current ESA regime is appropriate and proportionate for jobseekers with ill health and disabilities. It also considers whether the JSA and ESA regimes are achieving their policy intentions; the wider impacts on claimants; and possible alternatives.

Submissions should address the terms of reference issued by the Committee.

Upcoming events

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Past events

Wednesday 4 February 2015
9:30am Public
Benefit sanctions policy beyond the Oakley review - Oral evidence 4 February 2015
The Wilson Room, Portcullis House
Wednesday 21 January 2015
9:30am Public
Benefit sanctions policy beyond the Oakley review - Oral evidence 21 January 2015
The Grimond Room, Portcullis House
Wednesday 7 January 2015
9:30am Public
Benefit sanctions policy beyond the Oakley review - Oral evidence 7 January 2015
The Grimond Room, Portcullis House

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  • Email: workpencom@parliament.uk
  • Phone: 020 7219 8976 | 020 7219 1679 (Media)
  • Address: Work and Pensions Committee | House of Commons | London | SW1A 0AA