Caselaw summaries

Jobseeker's allowance (JSA) - jobseeker’s agreement form 2012–2014 – defective in that it did not refer to the claimants’ right to have a proposed jobseeker’s agreement referred to the Secretary of State

Council tax benefit (CTB) - late appeal – absolute time limit – human rights exception

Child benefit (CB) - contributing to cost of providing for children – children in Poland – weekly payments not required

Personal independence payment (PIP) - mobility component – descriptors 1(d) and (f): ‘Cannot follow the route of an unfamiliar [or for (f), familiar] journey without another person, assistance dog or orientation aid'

Personal independence payment (PIP) - mobility component – descriptor 1(d): ‘Cannot follow the route of an unfamiliar journey without another person, assistance dog or orientation aid'

Employment and support allowance (ESA) - conversion from incapacity benefits to ESA decisions – official error not to consider making an award of income-related ESA as well as contributory ESA

Disability living allowance (DLA) - hearing in party’s absence – claimant requested questioning by telephone – sensitive witness and Practice Direction

Personal independence payment (PIP) - activity 6: dressing and undressing – what clothes are considered – application of regulation 4(2A)

Work capability assessment support group membership – Activity 16 of Schedule 3 to the Employment and Support Allowance Regulations 2008, SI No.794: ‘cannot chew or swallow food or drink’

Foster carers – not entitled while child not ‘placed’ with them within meaning of Children Act 1989