Charity sector umbrella body NCVO has cautiously welcomed new government rules that aim to reinforce the freedom of people who receive welfare benefits to work and volunteer.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) intends for its “right to try” regulations, which came into force yesterday, to strengthen benefits claimants’ ability to volunteer without automatically triggering a reassessment of their claims.
DWP stated: “Right to try makes it clear that undertaking work or volunteering will not automatically lead to a reassessment.”
It clarified, however, that starting work or volunteering would not stop a pre-existing reassessment from taking place.
“A reassessment may still take place if there is a change in condition, clear improvement in functional ability, or suspected fraud,” it added.
The regulations apply to personal independence payment recipients, those on universal credit and people on the new-style employment and support allowance, among others.
NCVO welcomed the initiative but urged “consistent implementation”.
Rebecca Young, NCVO policy and public affairs lead, said: “For years, people on benefits who want to volunteer have been held back by fear of sanctions or losing vital support.
“[This week’s] changes should help remove some of that uncertainty and send a clearer signal that volunteering is not only allowed, but valued.
“No one should be locked out of that because the system feels too risky to navigate,” Young added.
Claimants have been advised to contact the DWP regarding how the new rules apply to their benefit.
