We are starting to have problems in our area re people who are trying to 'migrate' from therapeutic work/higher permitted work (without the support of outside agencies) to supported permitted work. Some of the cases recently referred to us by our Social Services Employment Placement Team have been in 'therapeutic work' for a number of years. The DWP response has been to doubt the word of the Employment Placement Team (who say these people do need support and meet their criteria for such)and basically say they are using the supported permitted work rules as a 'loophole' to stay on benefit. The issue has apparently been referred to the DWP Legal Team for advice - but I wondered if anyone else out there has experienced these problems? It is only happening in one area of Lancashire, which by coincidence (or not) also happens to be a Pathways to Work Pilot area - so I'd be particularly interested to hear from any of the other pilot areas.

Just a thought; it may be worth speaking with your local DEA(Disability Employment Adviser) at the jobcentre. If there seems to be a question on the capacity for your clients to work "unsupported", the DEA can refer clients for an Occupational Psycologist's report, to asscertain the potential of your clients within the labour market, and identify the support they may require. Although this is in no way binding with regard to benefit, usually the Incap/I.S. section will bow to the expertise of the DEA and the O.P.(both of whom being employees of the DWP).
I know there is no guarantee, but often the best way is to get your local DEA onside.

Fran
Just wondered if you've got an update on this? We have a customer who would like to 'migrate' to supported permitted work shortly
Thanks
Gayna

From the nil response from other areas, looks as if this could just be a local issue (which, by the way, we are still in the process of trying to resolve. We have an appeal coming up which might help. The appeal case concerns someone who had already been in work for a while when they applied to do supported work - and this was the issue for the decision maker. Might be worth asking if other areas have had problems in cases like this.

Thanks for that - will speak to local DEA in the meantime. Is your appeal listed yet? Could I contact you again for result please?

Appeal not listed yet. Ask again in a month's time. My email address is: frances.robinson@env.lancscc.gov.uk