WCA – Exceptional Opportunities, 4 & 5 July 2022 ONLINE

The work capability assessment (WCA) test dominates ESA and UC in relation to sick claimants. The ‘exceptional circumstances test (otherwise ‘risk to self or others’) should apply with equal force to those denied WCA points, but is often neglected by DWP decision makers and it does not even feature in the ESA50 / UC50 assessment forms. If ignored, many claimants will suffer, including those with mental health problems.

The course covers:

• WCA regulations relevant to ‘exceptional circumstances’
• The relevance of current case law to assist us
• Particular problem areas in relation to exceptional circumstances
• How to set out exceptional circumstances clearly in a claim format
• Using the law and case law to issue an effective revision or appeal

This online training course will help ensure that ‘exceptional circumstances’ rules are properly applied using regulations, guidance and case law. This will mean more effective claims, revisions and appeals.

For more expansive training aimed at frontline advisers helping UC claimants into work, please also see our Challenging WCA Decisions training course.

Methods of delivery and timings

This full-day Experienced level course runs from 10am to 1pm, across two consecutive mornings, with a 30 minute break on each day at 11.15am. It is delivered live online, via Zoom, with CPAG trainer Steve Johnson.

It is a practical course delivered using a combination of trainer presentation, exercises and group discussion. Participants will be provided with supporting e-learning material, including PowerPoint slides and access to exercises and activities hosted on CPAG’s e-learning platform.

What you will need

Participants will need a Wi-Fi connection and a suitable device to access the internet. Prior to the event, participants will receive an email with a link which they should use to join the event and access supporting materials.