Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:
To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what steps he is taking to ensure that all Jobcentre Plus staff are fully trained in the correct procedures for applying sanctions for missed appointments.
All Jobcentre staff have access to a comprehensive learning framework which is designed to build the core skills and knowledge essential to their role. This learning covers the appropriate use of sanctions, including in instances where a claimant has missed an appointment, and the support available for people who have been sanctioned. Independent assurance managers undertake quality checks to ensure that Work Coaches have followed the correct operational instructions when making sanction referrals.