Universal Credit Claimant Fined for Refusing Job He Said Could Kill Him
A 20-year-old Universal Credit claimant from Northamptonshire has been sanctioned by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) after turning down a job offer at a chicken farm, despite warning officials that the position could potentially kill him due to his severe allergies.
Severe Allergies Lead to Job Refusal and Sanction
The claimant, who has taken to social media to share his story, revealed that he was offered a job at a chicken farm housing approximately 12,000 chickens in a single shed. He explained that he is allergic to a wide range of substances, including animals like rabbits, cats, and dogs, as well as dust, pollen, and other environmental factors. Fearing for his health, he refused the job on the grounds that stepping foot in the facility might actually be life-threatening.
Despite informing the DWP of his allergies, he was hit with a high-level sanction, resulting in a fine of £10.91 per day. This deduction significantly impacts his monthly Universal Credit payment of around £250, leaving him in a difficult financial situation.
Claimant Expresses Frustration Over DWP Decision
In a heartfelt statement, the claimant expressed his gratitude for any financial support but criticized the DWP's approach. He said, "I'm grateful for any money that I get given, but at this point I'd rather not receive it. But don't give me money under the clause that I have to go and work in a job that I'm allergic to. That's just stupid."
He further elaborated on the absurdity of the situation, noting, "And then to sanction me on the highest level possible because I'm allergic to said job, and then basically telling me that I owe you money for being allergic essentially is what you're telling me. Because if you're going to take £10.91 a day from me, but I only get £250 a month, if you do the math, it doesn't really make sense, does it?"
Social Media Response and Similar Experiences
The claimant's TikTok clip sparked a wave of responses from viewers, many offering advice and sharing their own experiences with DWP sanctions. One viewer suggested, "Provide medical proof then they will remove it," to which the claimant replied that he had already submitted such documentation when he signed up for Universal Credit.
Other comments highlighted similar issues, with one person noting, "Apparently they also do this when people don't go for delivery driver jobs but don't have a license." Another shared, "I got sanctioned for missing an appointment because I was in hospital for surgery," underscoring broader concerns about the DWP's sanctioning practices.
Broader Implications for Benefit Claimants
This case raises important questions about the DWP's policies regarding job refusals based on health grounds. It highlights the challenges faced by individuals with severe allergies or other medical conditions when navigating the benefits system, particularly when job offers do not align with their health needs.
The incident has drawn attention to the need for clearer guidelines and more compassionate handling of such cases to prevent claimants from being penalized for prioritizing their health and safety.
