"DWP says Universal Credit Journal not mandatory for your Work Search records or CV"

"DWP says Universal Credit Journal not mandatory for your Work Search records or CV."

https://mrfrankzola.wordpress.com/2017/10/20/dwp-says-universal-credit-journal-not-mandatory-for-your-work-search-records-or-cv-why/

I also found the following in my files. I don't remember where I copied and pasted it from. But it sounds legit:

"The current policy as of February 2024 of the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) on the use of the Universal Credit Journal is that it is not mandatory for all claimants to use it. However, it can be required as part of the broader conditionality regime, and agreed between the claimant and the work coach. There is therefore no UC Full Service Guidance that specifies claimants must use their journal.

There have been some changes to the DWP's policy on the use of the journal in Universal Credit in recent years. In 2018, the DWP introduced a new conditionality regime for Universal Credit claimants. This regime sets out the steps that claimants must take in order to keep their benefits. One of the steps that claimants can be required to take is to use their journal.

However, the use of the journal is not mandatory for all claimants. The DWP's guidance states that the use of the journal should be agreed between the claimant and the work coach. This means that claimants can refuse to use the journal if they do not want to.

The DWP's guidance also states that the use of the journal should be proportionate and reasonable. This means that the use of the journal should only be required of claimants if it is necessary to help them get into work.

The DWP's policy on the use of the journal in Universal Credit is subject to change. Claimants should therefore keep themselves up-to-date with the latest guidance.

If you have any questions about the use of the journal in Universal Credit, you should contact your work coach.

A work coach can propose the use of the journal and explain its potential benefits as part of the job search strategy, but they cannot pressure a claimant to use it against their will. DWP policy states that using the journal is not mandatory for all claimants. It can be required under specific circumstances only after agreement between the claimant and the work coach. Also, UC Full Service Guidance doesn't mandate journal use for all claimants. And claimants have the right to choose which methods they use for their job search and evidence keeping. Pressuring or coercing a claimant to use the journal could be considered an infringement on their autonomy and decision-making rights.

Alternatives

Many effective alternative methods exist for documenting job search activity. Claimants can choose options that better suit their needs and preferences.

Important points

While work coaches can discuss the advantages of the journal, they should also present alternative options and respect the claimant's choice.

If a claimant feels pressured or uncomfortable, they have the right to raise concerns with the work coach, a supervisor, or seek independent advice.

Remember, open communication and mutual respect are essential for a productive relationship between work coaches and claimants."