This thread is specifically for people in the UK who are on or are facing the prospect of having to do the Work Programme in order to keep claiming JSA (or ESA).

You've no doubt heard to horror stories about employers using the unemployed as "unpaid labour" under the euphemistic concept of "work trials" (when in fact, there's no real work prospect at the end of the trial).

Let me start this thread with a link to an online pamphlet that helps to navigate anyone facing prospect of having to do the Work Programme. Of particular interest is the bits about the redacted CV (which I've done) as well as the bit about the Data Protection Act and how if you read the form they give you it clearly states if you DON'T sign the form, you can't be penalised or have your benefits sanctioned. All you are legally obliged to provide Workfare providers with is a form of photo ID, your Jobsearch form that you bring in when you normally sign in and that's IT - again, under the Data Protection Act 1998 you cannot be made to sign anything that waivers your wishes not to have your information given to third parties. In other words, if they don't have your consent to contact employers with your CV, the less likely you will be forced into unpaid indentured servitude.

Even if it doesn't affect you but you might know someone about to do the Programme, please can you pass this link onto them:

Your rights on WorkFare & Jobseekers Allowance | Consent and Welfare to Work(fare) Programmes

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challenging the heterosexist matrix in a single flounce

"Hello, my name is Rula Lenska and as always, I want to look my best"

Thanks for posting this. Do they give you a travel/meal allowance when you are sent on the "trial"?

I don't know, to be honest. I'm waiting for a letter in the post which indicates my first meeting with my "personal advisor" so once I have that, I'll try to find out. I can't see them expecting you to travel everyday without them offering to pay for it.

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challenging the heterosexist matrix in a single flounce

"Hello, my name is Rula Lenska and as always, I want to look my best"

So glad this thread is here, I have a feeling I'll be needing it.

I have my first appointment at the jobcentre next week (I was made redunant last week when the company I was working for went under) and I'm wondering how long it will take before I'm sent on this Work Program. I know a couple of people who were on it though they didn't have to do any Workfare stuff. I'd be really tempted to tell them to shove it and try living by my wits alone.

Nice one (the original post and the comment above).