People who receive benefits are allowed to engage in voluntary work, but specific payments may be affected, requiring notification to the Department for Work and Pensions. The voluntary work, which must be unpaid and for someone outside of close family, may result in adjustments to benefits based on the role. Citizens’ Advice emphasizes the importance of understanding how volunteering can impact benefits and suggests keeping receipts for any related expenses.
When considering volunteer work, individuals should inform their work coach through their online journal to ensure expenses reimbursement does not affect benefit payments. Work coaches may permit volunteer activities alongside seeking employment, potentially adjusting commitments to accommodate job interviews and offers. Jobcentre Plus should be informed before starting volunteer work, while continuous job-seeking efforts remain necessary.
For unpaid carers on benefits, notifying Jobcentre Plus about volunteer work is required, with a focus on maintaining the required care hours to retain benefits eligibility. Disabled or sick benefit recipients can volunteer without restrictions, but they must inform the DWP beforehand, including details on health conditions affecting volunteering and any necessary adjustments.
The DWP may reassess claimants’ health status, potentially leading to benefit payment adjustments. It is crucial for individuals to understand the impact of volunteer work on their benefits and to communicate any changes to the relevant authorities.