Department for Work and Pensions

The complainant has requested DWP to provide information relating to the Mandatory Work Activity – specifically information relating to the obligations of claimants to prove they are still actively looking for work whilst on the scheme. After the complainant provided some clarification, DWP provided the information the complainant required. The complainant however remained dissatisfied with how his complaint had been handled – in particular the overall tone and accuracy of the responses he received. The Commissioner has reviewed the case. He is satisfied that all recorded information DWP holds relating to the complainant’s request was provided at the internal review. However, he has reached the decision that DWP failed to provide the complainant with appropriate advice and assistance at the outset of his requests and in doing so DWP breached section 16 of the FOIA. As the complainant did receive the requested information, he does not require any further action to be taken in this case.