Welfare Reform Act 2012

Welfare Reform Act 2012

2012 CHAPTER 5

Commentary on Sections

Part 1: Universal credit

Section 16: Work preparation requirement

76. Section 16 defines the work preparation requirement as actions specified by the Secretary of State in order to increase a claimant’s chances (immediately or in the future) of getting work, increasing the number of hours they work or getting work that is better paid. Subsection (3) provides examples of the types of activities that could be specified, such as undertaking a work placement or work experience, participating in a training course or writing a CV, but this is not an exhaustive list. Regulations may set out other actions or provide more detail about the actions listed.

77. Subsection (4) makes clear that a work preparation requirement may include taking part in a work-focused health-related assessment. These will be carried out by a health care professional and will provide information about the claimant’s capabilities and steps which might be taken to improve their mental or physical health. Subsection (6) defines what is meant by a health care professional.