"It isn't mandatory but on the other hand we like to suggest it could be mandatory, we hope that is now clear"

The DWP have issued yet another Press Release, today concerning aspects of Universal Credit (1616/2013).

The FoI enquiry : Received 29 March 2013                    Published June 2013

In the department's press release on the 29 March, "Universal Credit – Pathfinder update", it is stated that all new claims for Universal Credit at  Ashton-under-Lyne will mean being:    

"automatically signed on to Universal Jobmatch."

Please can you provide me with the following: * a Universal Credit claim form (paper copy) And: * the specific written instruction - on whatever document this might appear - making clear to the claimant the mandatory  requirement to register a Universal Jobmatch account.”

DWP response

A paper claim form does not exist as Universal Credit (UC) claims will be online or through the telephony channel.  We have contingency arrangements in place if the UC Core system is not available but this does not amount to a paper version of the on-line claim.

Instructions around 'mandatory, elements of Universal Jobmatch - setting up a UJ account is not a mandatory part of UC.
 

However the claimant commitment is mandatory and this may include action for the claimant to undertake with respect to using Universal Jobmatch to find work.

As we know the DWP certainly do intend "mandating" signing up to Universal Jobmatch and would very much like to be able to compel users into letting their “advisers” keep track of how they use it but at present reluctantly accept that they can't.  The current guidance for individuals regarding UC,  Universal Credit and your Claimant Commitment  "explains" on page 3:- 

In most cases, your Claimant Commitment will be drawn up during an interview with your adviser. If you are able to look or prepare for work, your Commitment will include things like your job goals, regular work search activity, or any work preparation actions that you must complete to receive Universal Credit.

Work search activity could involve registering with Universal Jobmatch or a recruitment agency, or applying for suggested vacancies.  Work preparation activity could include preparing a CV or attending and completing a training course. You could also be expected to attend regular interviews to discuss progress.