Rise in benefit sanctions

[Lilith7]

I received more respect and kindness yesterday from the security guards than I got from the system as operated by the Winz staffers. And they were only following their job requirements. The thing that got to me was the dental grant system is an entitlement, but all of a sudden the word 'discretionary' has been added to the mix which undermines that, and opens the door to a power play between applicant and system.

And that is dangerous.

It is; especially if a particular 'manager' gets carried away with their bit of power over others.
 I've also heard that some of the managers tend not to bother informing people what they're entitled to, although that was some time back & may have changed.

 If it hasn't then it should have; any poor sod going onto a benefit should be fully informed immediately as to what they're entitled to & what rights they have, as well as what conditions they have to meet.

I wonder whether the Nats will reinstate their idea from some years back (possibly the 90's not sure) that everyone on a benefit is clearly a lazy sod & must do some form of voluntary work as a condition of receiving a benefit. It would perhaps satisfy the more vindictive of their supporters.


CAB provides supporters for people who have to visit WINZ, or did so may be worth getting one for any future visits...absolutely appalling, that they need to do so, but if WINZ is heading down that road again it may help.