Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what ongoing support his Department offers a jobseeker's allowance claimant who has received a sanction.

Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) claimants are made aware of the availability of financial support under the hardship provision (verbally and in writing) from the point that a benefit doubt is identified.

Once a decision is made and a sanction applied, a formal notification is issued to the claimant, which includes information about the availability of JSA under the hardship provision. Where appropriate, claimants will be supported to make hardship applications.

Irrespective of whether or not a person has a sanction imposed on their benefit, Jobcentre Plus staff will continue to provide the appropriate levels of support for each claimant (tailored to their individual circumstances) to help them obtain employment. This may include proactively signposting them to specific expert support or providing advice on appropriate means for looking for employment.