JULY 2008

dwpeople
Full circle
Managers support 360
degree feedback

Working a way out

New changes to the
welfare system

History in
the making
DWP time
traveller lands
in the 15th
century!

Your award winning DWP staff magazine

Feature

Be safe, be green
Let’s drive for a better world this summer

SOMETIMES it’s nice to leave work behind you and just cruise
off to a sunnier climate, without a care in the world.

But before you jump in the car and hit the highway, why not
give a little thought to the environment. There are several
simple steps which can make a real difference – and it won’t
stop you from enjoying your holiday.

Here are five things that will give Mother Earth a break while
you take one as well…

• If it’s a short trip to the airport, hotel or station organise

Car Jack!
alternative transport such as train, bus or even your feet.

• After you’ve started your car try to move off immediately.

You’d be amazed how many people just sit there with the WHEN it comes to car usage
engine running! Jackie Tolan from the corporate
governance team at Quarry House
• Treat air conditioning as a luxury. Using it all the time will is driving change – quite literally!
increase fuel consumption. Instead of cluttering up her garage,
filling the air with harmful fumes
• If travelling at less than 40 miles per hour, roll your window and using the car every time she
down rather than using air conditioning. leaves the house Jackie has
discovered a far more effective
• Try not to accelerate and break aggressively. It doesn’t look option.
cool and it wastes petrol.
She has joined a car club, in Leeds,
that has a number of vehicles that are
shared by its members and that are
only run as required. Each time Jackie
needs her car she simply turns up at
the club, pays a small administration
fee and away she goes.

When she’s finished, she returns it to the

club safe in the knowledge that she
won’t have to pay any further petrol,
insurance or maintenance costs.

The reduced usage isn’t the only way that

Jackie will be helping the environment.
The cars are all fuelled with bio-diesel
which is generated from used vegetable oil.

2 | dwpeople | July 2008

 Contents

04 17
News in Brief 15th century girl
News from across Hobby of the Month is
the Department history

06 18
Parental guidance Team of the Month
How DWP is helping lone Ely Jobcentre Plus are this
parents get ahead month’s dream team

08 19
Teaching you a lesson Star gazer
Staff enjoy Learning at Yvonne raises thousands
Work Day for charity

10 20
Working a way out Letters
DWP’s commitment to Staff views on eye care,
welfare reform recycling and swimming

12 22
Full circle What’s in it for me?
360 degree feedback What staff can expect from
proves a hit for managers HR over the coming year

13 24
Off the beaten track Busted!
Middle East adventures with No excuses – Busted!
Tina Townsend Greaves brings fraudsters to justice

16 26
New quiz page
Err on the side of caution
By popular demand:
Getting it right
more chances to win

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imply recommendation by DWP. The advertising for DWPeople is managed by Landmark Publishing Services, 2 Windmill Street, London W1T 2HX. Tel: 020
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 News in Brief

DWPeople – back soon

LIKE many staff, DWPeople is looking
forward to taking a well-earned
summer holiday.
The team will be back in September
with all the latest news and regular
features such as Busted! and the
ever-popular quiz page.
Until then, keep checking the DWP
intranet for news updates and please
keep sending in your story ideas to
dwpeople@dwp.gsi.gov.uk
Congratulations from
Her Majesty
THE QUEEN’S Birthday Honours have
been announced and 26 DWP staff
are on the list.
Summer Livin’
LACK of water is the number one
trigger of daytime fatigue, so this
summer DWP’s health and wellbeing
team are providing solutions for
keeping healthy throughout the
hottest months of the year.
The look after yourself in summer
campaign has advice on drinking
more water, staying hydrated and
avoiding sunburn. enough fluid. Teams can request
pocket-size hydration charts from
To coincide with the campaign, a their HR Business Partner.
hydration chart will be made
available to staff – offering a simple For more information visit the
way to check that you are drinking wellbeing portal via the intranet A-Z

Those receiving honours include

frontline staff, members of the Senior
Civil Service and others associated
All’s well
with the Department’s work.

To view the full list, visit the Honours

intranet site (find it in the DWP intranet
A-Z) and click on ‘Latest Honours’.
DWP goes international
STAFF from the Fraud Investigation
Service have been on a visit to Ukraine
to share their ideas on the best way to
tackle benefit fraud and error.
DWP is recognised as a world leader in
this field and has been asked by The
World Bank to help other countries
improve their systems.
with Askwell
ALL STAFF can now access Askwell,
a new interactive health tool.
The resource is available 24 hours a
day from work or home and gives
staff and their families access to
hundreds of pages of information,
downloadable fact sheets and links to
dozens of recognised health sites.
The easy-to-use site looks at ten ways
to live well. It covers topics such as
nutrition, work life balance, sleep,
personal feelings and routine
health checks.
Check out the Balance Wheel to find
out how balanced your life is and where
you should be making adjustments.
For more information visit the
wellbeing portal via the intranet A-Z

On the move
NEW 3G technology will soon be
available more widely across DWP.
The technology improves broadband
access and will be a real help to staff
with laptops, who frequently work
on the move.
Look out for more information on the
Corporate IT intranet site (find it in the
DWP intranet A-Z).
4 | dwpeople | July 2008
CASPER the friendly pension project
A NEW Pension, Disability and Carers
Service project to help pensioners get
the money they are entitled to more
quickly is now underway.
Project CASPER focuses on addressing
some of the problems pensioners
face when making a claim for
Carer’s Allowance.
Long standing issues around
entitlement, the decision making
process and letters are being tackled
by the project.
The pilots started on 7 July and will
test proposals to:
• allow Local Service staff to give an
immediate decision on entitlements to
Carer’s Allowance and Carer’s Addition
• replace the current entitlement letter
with a new plain English version
• reduce the average time spent
dealing with underlying entitlement
from six weeks to two.

On horse for success
AFTER decorating themselves, their
horses and all their bridal gear in
pink, Anne Johnson and her
daughter embarked on a memorable
equine crusade.
Anne, from the joint international
unit at Caxton House, was taking
part in the ‘Think Pink’ charity event,
organised by a local saddlery shop.
They were raising money for Cancer
Research by riding around a cross
country course near Brands Hatch.
Anne explained: “The horse and
rider had to use as much pink as
possible. We started preparing for
the event weeks ago and Kris has
Talking it over
A PILOT scheme using mediation as an
alternative to grievances or making
harassment, discrimination and bullying
complaints is underway in DWP.
Mediation brings both parties together
to reach an agreement through a
professionally trained mediator.
Mediation is completely voluntary and
confidential. Nothing said by anyone in
the process can be used as evidence in
any subsequent action.
The pilot runs until January 2009 in
Jobcentre Plus’s Contact Centres and
Benefits and Fraud Directorates as
well as the Disability Contact and
Do you have any news for
DWPeople? Email your story to:
dwpeople@dwp.gsi.gov.uk
News in Brief
been very busy designing the outfits
for the horses. We dyed our hair,
painted our nails, wore pink
clothes and even coloured the
horses’ hooves.”
Melody, who belongs to Anne, and
the other heroic horses covered the
ten mile course effortlessly in just
two hours.
The final total for the event came in
at a whopping £20,000!
“We had a really brilliant time and
have raised a lot of money for a
great cause. After we’d finished it
was all the girls could talk about,”
added Anne. Impressive reign: Anne, on the left, and daughter Kris
Fiddler on the TV
THE SECOND series of On the Fiddle,
the BBC1 documentary following
the work of fraud investigators,
started in July.
Staff feedback from the last series of
On the Fiddle showed that the show’s
focus on how DWP helps its
customers was particularly popular –
Processing Unit in the Pensions, and series two continues to give
Disability and Carers Service. screen time to this aspect of the
Mediation is an easier and quicker way Department’s work.
to resolve problems in a safe and
secure environment. The series continues throughout July
and August on Tuesday evenings.
For more information, visit the Check regional press and Headline
Mediation pilot policy on The News for times.
Department and You website.
Staff can report cases where they
think customers are acting fraudulently
or log suspicions from members of
the public via the intranet PPQ
referral form on their desktop.
July 2008 | dwpeople | 5
Feature

Parental guidance
Catherine Chan reports
on how the Department
is helping lone parents
to get ahead
COCKNEYS have “bin lids”, the Scots
call them “bairns” and they’re “plant”
in Welsh. Whatever you call children,
the UK is now home to nearly 12
million of them.

To make sure every child gets the

best start to life, DWP is giving more
support to lone parents. In exchange,
those who are able to work will be
expected to look for jobs.

From November 2008, the benefit

system will change so lone parents
whose youngest child is 12 will
no longer be able to claim Income
Support solely on the grounds of
One to one: making plans at the Options and Choices event
being a lone parent. This is subject
to parliamentary approval.

Instead, those lone parents who are

able to work will claim Jobseeker’s
Allowance and be given help to move
into employment. Lone parents can
already receive financial help with
childcare, training and essential costs.
Since April, extra support has been
available, such as guaranteed job
interviews or attending an Options
and Choices event (see next page).
And the relationship with DWP
doesn’t end when they find work –
Jobcentre Plus will continue to offer
advice on issues including childcare
and financial support such as In
Work Credit.
Child maintenance is changing…
 The Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission will take over
the Child Support Agency.
 A new service called Child Maintenance Options is being launched.
This will help parents to make either a private arrangement or opt
for a statutory one.
 For the first time, parents with care on benefits will be able to set up
private child maintenance arrangements – previously they had to use
the Child Support Agency. (‘Parents with care’ refers to the parent or
carer who the child normally lives with and pays for most of the child’s
everyday living costs.)
 By autumn, all child maintenance payments received by the Child
Support Agency will be paid directly to parents with care who will be
allowed to keep up to £20 a week before it affects their benefits.

The Child Maintenance system is

also going through changes so that
parents can make arrangements For more updates, visit the Child Support Agency intranet
to suit their circumstances – and
site (available through the DWP intranet homepage).
make sure more children benefit
from regular maintenance payments.

6 | dwpeople | July 2008


Making the right choice
JOBCENTRE Plus has been holding a series of events
to help lone parents get to grips with the changes to
Income Support.
Customers with children over 12 are invited to attend
the Options and Choices events. DWPeople went to
catch the session at John Lewis in Solihull.
es event in
the Options and Choic
Jobcentre Plus staff at
Solihull, West Midlands
Simon Forrest
Tell us about I’m from Jobcentre Plus
yourself Birmingham and Solihull
District and I’ve organised
today’s event.
How did you feel We’ve run more than 70
before the event? events since January but I’m
always nervous – attendance
is voluntary so we never know
what the turnout will be.
And afterwards? Good turnout (20 customers).
The event gave us the chance
to explain the benefit change
and options: move on to
Jobseeker’s Allowance, get
ready for work or find a job.
Customers start to think
about the future and more
than 90 per cent will have
a follow-up meeting with
an adviser.
Feature
Case study: a bright spark
A WORK trial gave April Burton the chance to try out a new
job without any risks.
The 32-year-old mum from Powys, Wales, was unemployed
for a year and wanted to become a welder. But despite
getting a City & Guilds qualification at her local college,
April felt that her lack of experience was holding her back.
Julia Sanderson – April’s adviser at Welshpool Jobcentre
Plus – explained that she could go on a work trial and they
agreed to set one up.
April spent three weeks with Sparks R Flyin, a Shropshire
welding company. During this time she was able to keep
up with her college course and Jobcentre Plus also gave her
a discretionary grant to pay for clothing and equipment.
April impressed her bosses so much that they’ve hired her.
Work trials are currently available for lone parents for up to
three weeks but Jobcentre Plus is looking at how it can extend
work trials for up to six weeks. New Deal for Lone Parents
participants can get additional help with childcare and travel
costs to help them take advantage of this opportunity.
Susan Morrison Jo Chatwin
I’m a single mum and I live in I work for John Lewis in
Yardley Wood, Birmingham. Solihull. My role is to talk
about what it’s like to work.
I was nervous and shaking! I could relate to the audience
But when I came into the because I’m a single mum
room, it was great to see myself. It can be difficult trying
so many other people here. to juggle work and home life.
It’s given me more confidence Lots of positive feedback!
to go out and get a job. In my presentation I talked
about the benefits of working.
I’ve been out of work for Our shifts are flexible, we all
18 years so I didn’t know get a training account and
I can get help with my CV we can sign up for childcare
and training. vouchers.
This was also the first time I’d Most customers had been
had a chat with an employer – out of work for long periods
she helped me to see that I do and didn’t know how much
have skills to offer. modern companies can offer.
July 2008 | dwpeople | 7
 Feature
That’ll teach you!
earning at work is more popular than ever
THE PHRASE ‘if you
stick around you might
learn something’ has
rarely been more apt.
During the annual
festival of knowledge
that is Learning at
Work Day, DWP staff
had the opportunity to
improve themselves in
several different ways.
The many opportunities
included information
about health, technology,
education and art.
John Pinching searched
the country to find out
exactly what staff had
been learning…
Debt Management Centre in Bradford
Flower power: Rebecca’s floral designs proved popular with
staff
8 | dwpeople | July 2008
Jobcentre Plus Sheffield
AT THE Sheffield office staff were able to “I was also impressed by the items
learn about Reiki – an increasingly popular given away such as fruit, pens and
method of spiritual healing – the Red quick read books.”
Cross, how to quit smoking and even a
‘Countdown’ game show. The latter was Branch learning officer, Richard Boswell,
designed to help staff think quickly and was pleased with the response to Learning
problem solve. at Work Day: “We had a huge turn out.
More than 200 staff visited Hartshead
There were also informative tables from Square and the feedback has been
HASSRA, Skills for Business, the British very positive.”
Donor Register and ‘good bacteria’
company Yakult (a healthy yogurt drink).
Administrator, Beth Evans said: “I was
pleased with the range of activities, from
healthy living to environmental issues.
During the day I spoke to an organisation
offering skills for business and was given a
free IT course.
Five alive: visitors in Sheffield were given free fruit
IN BRADFORD staff were introduced to local colleges about courses they
might be able to take in the future.
They were also able to find out about energy saving, adult learning and
various sports. Some staff were lucky enough to learn the art of head
massaging and flower arranging.
Recovery team admin officer Rebecca Parnaby ran the flower arranging
classes. She said: “Lots of people were really enthusiastic, it was like the
generation game! It’s a simple and creative skill to have as well as being a
great way to wind down after a tough day at the office.”
The Fire Service were also there, raising awareness about safety and how
staff should be protecting their homes. As an incentive fire alarms were
given away.
Aysha Sidat, a debt management admin officer, organised the day. She
said: “This was a good opportunity for staff to learn a range of new skills,
and also how they can combine work with a healthy lifestyle.”
 Feature

Jobcentre Plus in East Kilbride

THE STAFF in this area of
Scotland were treated to something
of an educational extravaganza
with representatives from both
the University of West Scotland
and South Lanarkshire College.
Many people signed up for courses
including digital photography, sign
language and Spanish.
officer from Coatbridge, and several
colleagues are already enjoying the
Spanish lessons.
Margaret said: “It all contributes to a
work life balance. It’s so convenient
because the teacher comes to the
office in the evening for the duration
of the course. It’s been a great route
back into education.”

The college, which is conveniently Organiser, Linsey Fairlie from

situated just across the road, even
provided bespoke 12-week courses
over the summer, making it easy for
staff to commit themselves.
Margaret Chapman, an executive
Jobcentre Plus in Motherwell said:
“The staff were really enthusiastic
about the courses on offer. The day
not only helped the staff to learn but Which way to learn: many staff opted for a
also increased the links between DWP return to eduation
and the local community.”

Dearne Valley Pension Centre

The Adelphi in London
IN THE ‘big smoke’ enthusiastic scribes were treated
to interactive creative writing lessons from Adam
Sharples. The Work Welfare and Equality Group
Director General delighted the audience with word
quizzes and advice about how they could
communicate better.

The day included presentations on diversity,

sustainable development and childcare salary sacrifice
– the DWP scheme which lets staff sacrifice part of
their salary in exchange for vouchers which can be
used to pay for registered childcare.
Culture vultures were shown around the Tate Gallery,
while many opted to learn about the wildlife of St
James’s Park during specially arranged tours.
People and business management team leader Alison
Humberstone, said: “The day was a real success.
There are 1,100 staff here and at least half attended
one or more events. With each year that passes this
event seems to get bigger and more popular.”
Class act: Adam
Sharples discussed
communication
with his newly
discovered students
STAFF AT Dearne Valley participated in the mysterious
and ancient practice of Tai Chi – a form of martial art,
known for its relaxation qualities.
The theme of the day was healthy living and work life
balance with a range of exciting activities such as
slimming club, aromatherapy, reiki, reflexology, tap
dancing and tango lessons.
There was a complimentary healthy breakfast and staff
didn’t need a second invitation – over 40 meals were
gratefully consumed. For those who were yet to be
convinced, there was also the option of a traditional, and
considerably less healthy, fry up.
National virtual network team leader Andrea Law said: “I
had a splendid time, attending four different events,
including tap dancing, salsa and aromatherapy, exercise
definitely benefits your performance at work by keeping
your brain alert!”

July 2008 | dwpeople | 9

Feature

Working a way out

David Hall reports on
how DWP’s changes to
the welfare system will
help people out of
poverty and support them
into work
ALTHOUGH there may be times when
we beg to differ – like first thing on a
Monday morning – recent research has
shown that being in work is better for
our quality of life.

That’s just one of the reasons DWP is

changing the welfare system to get
more people into work and off benefits.
The financial, health and lifestyle
benefits are obvious, but welfare
reform isn’t just about getting people
into work. The reforms will offer
people the best route out of poverty,
increasing their sense of self-worth
and creating more opportunities.
If people can work they are expected
to, and they will receive support to
help them do so. If they are not able
to work then they will continue to
receive the support they need.
The Department has a target of 80 per
cent employment, and the ending of
child poverty by 2020.
Both are bold aims, but by making
links with employers and getting
customers access to the right kind of
training, DWP can help them find
more fulfilling employment, with
better prospects for themselves – and
their families.
Big changes have already happened –
such as the new services to support
“I’m keen to find out more about what the new changes
can do for me. I've been bringing up my kids for the last 12
years and would need some help with IT and English before
I'd feel ready to get a job.”
Lone parent Eileen from Smith’s Wood, Solihull
lone parents and the nationwide roll
out of Pathways to Work to help
Incapacity Benefit customers back Your Say
to work.
Even bigger developments are If you have any questions
expected, such as Employment and about welfare reform send
Support Allowance, which from
October replaces incapacity benefits them to dwpeople@dwp.
for new claimants. gsi.gov.uk to get them
A new welfare reform Green Paper,
answered in the September
with proposals that take these changes edition of DWPeople.
further, will be published soon.
Over the page there is a timeline, with For more information
details of the new changes coming visit the A to Z and look
over the next year.
up welfare
And there are quotes from people about
what they think of the reforms that have
taken place and the changes to come.

10 | dwpeople | July 2008

 Feature

ut the changes
What YOU think abo
“The welfare reform changes are a good idea. Anything which helps customers get back into work or take the first
steps towards working is a positive thing.”
Chris Whitehead, Hyde Benefit Delivery Centre

“Pathways enable us to promote work and getting back to work to many disadvantaged customers. We can provide
people with real opportunities.”
Paul Morris, partnership manager, South Wales Jobcentre Plus

“We’re publishing a new welfare reform Green Paper as we still need to do more to reach some customers. We want
to hear your views on proposals and will let you know how you can feedback later.”
Jacquie Wood, long term benefit reform team

A timeline for reform

2007
May The Welfare Reform Act 2007 got things started. Royal Assent gave
the go-ahead to the Employment and Support Allowance.
July A DWP Green Paper: In work, better off sets out the next stage of
welfare reform proposals – asking for views about the best ways to
help individuals support themselves and their families. Plans are
then set out by the Government in December 2007.

2008
April-June Pathways to Work: Pathways are already providing Incapacity
Benefit customers with help and support into work – with over
83,000 job entries since the pilots began.
City Strategy: Extra funding to 15 areas to provide support
to areas of the UK with the highest unemployment rates.
Local Housing Allowance: Reform introduces a new way of
calculating Housing Benefit for private tenants.
Lone parents: see pages 6 and 7 to find out about the changes.
July A Green Paper: Further proposals around reducing dependency on
welfare and support into work while increasing personal
responsibility
Child Maintenance redesign: The Child Maintenance and
Enforcement Commission will take over the Child Support Agency
later this year. A new service called Child Maintenance Options will
launch to help parents make either a private arrangement or opt
for a statutory one.
October Employment and Support Allowance: will replace incapacity
benefits for new claimants, focusing on what people with physical
or mental health conditions can do, rather than what they can’t
do.
November Lone parent changes – Subject to parliamentary approval, lone
parents who can work will be required to claim Jobseekers
Allowance once their youngest child is 12.

July 2008 | dwpeople | 11

Feature

Full
circle
David Hall finds out how 360
degree feedback is helping
leaders across DWP

THE PERFORMANCE of our leaders is under constant

scrutiny – with Staff Survey results showing less than
Leadership
a third of all staff believe their line manager asks for development carries on
feedback on their managerial style. whatever level you get
to in DWP. Caron
360 degree feedback gives managers the opportunity to Twining, Principal
Psychologist, tells us
get the real low-down on their performance – from their
what it’s like to give
team, colleagues and their own manager. feedback to the
Permanent Secretary.

Caron has worked with Leigh Lewis

degree over the past year, reviewing the
What is 360 findings from his 360 degree feedback
feedback? es getting and helping him put them into practice.
volv
suggests, it in u,
Like the name h o w o rk closest with yo She says: “Leigh was keen to take
th ose w
feedback from r own manag
er. 360 degree feedback once we had
including you
developed it in DWP. As you might
work?
How does it from everyone
invited expect, he knows his strengths and
is gath ered n of weaknesses. But he was also quick
bac k on yo ur performance w ith you r own perceptio
Fe ed pared to recognise the areas he needs to
is is then com
to take part. Th your performan
ce. work on.”

elp?
How can it h o affects For Caron, reviewing your progress
aw are of how what you d afterwards is just as important as the
n make you
The process ca those around
you. initial feedback.

e part?
Who can tak also an She adds: “Leigh requested a follow-up
fro m EO to SCS level. It’s review and assessment. It isn’t a
ers, n line
All DWP manag vi d e feed b ack to your ow compulsory part of the process but I
p ro
opportunity to eir performance
. For more think it’s essential to go back and
er on th
man ag er A-Z in
rmatio n, lo o k for 360 und see if the feedback has resulted in
info
the directory. real leadership development and
behaviour change.”
12 | dwpeople | July 2008
 Feature

Off the beaten track

Catherine Chan talks to
Tina Townsend Greaves
about her adventures in
the Middle East
AFGHANISTAN, Iraq, Iran. Possibly
not the first places that spring to mind
for a relaxing holiday. But for Tina
Townsend Greaves, these countries
have proved fascinating places to visit.

Tina, who works in the Risk Assurance

Division in Leeds, says: “When my Above: Tina at the Citadel of Herat, Afghanistan.
mum died, it made me realise life The site was previously used as the Taliban’s headquarters
was passing me by. It pushed me to Below: time for a book and a biscuit at a bookstore in Kabul, Afghanistan
go out and do things while I still can.

“During my travels there were “One of my highlights was seeing

times when I asked myself what I
was doing. We heard gunfire at
night and on another occasion our
minibus disappeared.
“But being able to experience different
cultures makes it all worthwhile.”
Staff are entitled to 22-30 days
Hadda, an ancient Buddhist site in
holiday, depending on their grade
Afghanistan. In its heyday it would
and length of service. To check
have been comparable to Pompeii,
your entitlement, visit the HR site
in terms of importance and beauty.
(find it in the DWP intranet A-Z)
and click on “Time off”).
“Unfortunately it’s been ravaged by
war and has been totally destroyed.”

Tina travels with a specialist travel
company. It’s a delicate balancing
act – keeping out of harm’s way
while also trying to see as much
of the country as possible.
Luckily Tina has been able to visit
other unspoilt areas and find out
more about the culture. “In Iran, it
was relatively easy to find somewhere
to eat and drink but only men are
offered menus!
“The strict dress code also
meant I spent all of the time
covered from head to toe.
“It felt strange seeing the
men taking off their jackets
when they sat down to eat
but not being able to do
the same.”
So what next for intrepid Tina?
“I’m going to Blackpool!”
she jokes.
Travel tips
 To check if it’s safe to travel
somewhere, visit the Foreign
and Commonwealth Office
website: www.fco.gov.uk
 For travel health advice,
visit: www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk
 Staying at home? Why not
sign up to HASSRA, DWP’s
official provider of sports,
social and leisure activities:
www.hassra.org.uk

July 2008 | dwpeople | 13

Culture

The Gallery
DWPeople will feature more
galleries in the future, so if
you’d like your art exhibited
send high-res photos to
dwpeople@dwp.gsi.gov.uk

DWP presents the work of Pete Greening

WE ARE always grateful to receive email from our readers, and
were very excited when we discovered some of Pete Greening’s
art in the DWPeople inbox.

Pete, a computer support officer in Watford, uses acrylic and

board to create his pictures. It’s not really possible to reproduce
the scale of his paintings – they’re often several square feet.

Thanks to the miracle of modern technology you can enjoy the

artistic merit of his excellent geometric paintings.

Untitled

Eight years ago

Pyramids

Pete admits his initial reason for ‘studying’ art at school

was to skive! It was while browsing through the art library
About one day in 1970 that he encountered the work of his
the greatest influences Bridget Riley and Victor Vaserely –
artist both leading lights in the Op Art movement. He has had
two exhibitions of his work during the early eighties in the
Self-portrait UK and one of his paintings currently hangs in a Parisian
flat, next to an original Picasso!

14 | dwpeople | June 2008

 Culture

Living poets
society
A FEW weeks ago the word ‘poetry’ cropped up
in a Headline News story.

This was all it took for the Department’s would-be

poets to create, and duly send in, some office-
inspired verse.

In a one-off tribute DWPeople has selected a

couple of stanzas for everyone to enjoy.

Untitled

Here I sit while on a break on Friday afternoon

I could have written a short note or read some
Mills and Boon,
Or better yet, a horror book by good old
Stephen King,
But no, I thought I'd answer "Have Your Say"
and do my thing.
Hello to all the merry people reading "Have
Your Say",
Rejoice, for Monday we're not in, we have
Bank Holiday!
Will you spend it by the seaside, will you tour
Life in the Oxford hub
Oh happy are we with the daily grind
Day in and day out and still trying to find
Contentment and happiness we still are looking
But while we do this we still keep on booking
Appointments and ring rounds oh what bliss
If we couldn’t come here daily what fun we

i
the shops? would miss
Will you misbehave and be arrested by the Now for the staff that work here, what a mixture
cops? Some have been here so long they are part of the
Alas my break is over, back to inputting your fixture
data, There are old ones and young ones, short and tall
So this poem must be abandoned, I shall have too
to plague you later. Some mad and loopy to name just a few
Annie Spencer Employee Services We won’t mention their names you know who
you are
But we really think that you could go far
We are kept in the attic of the jobcentre
Hidden away and kept out of sight
Although it is spacious but not very bright
Please spare a thought for us each day

HASSRA
We are here for pleasure not just pay
Please come and visit at your own risk
You will enter quite slowly but leave very brisk
If all this creativity is inspiring you, why
not sign up to HASSRA, DWP’s official
provider of sports, social and leisure Wendy Sykes Oxford Nino Hub
activities: Go to DWP intranet > A-Z > H>
HASSRA or visit www.hassra.org.uk
Feature

Err on the side

of caution
Laura Turvey finds out how staff can
help to reduce error

WITH thousands of customers to deal
with everyday, each with their own
complicated situation and varying
needs, it’s no wonder that things can
sometimes get mixed up or go wrong.
DWP paid out more than £126 billion
in social security benefits to around
17.6 million customers during
2007/08, and the hard work and
dedication of staff helped to keep
mistakes to a minimum – with 97 per
cent of all these benefits paid correctly.
check the facts when an overpayment
referral is raised – from here it is then
passed on to the debt centre.
“Most cases of overpayment can be
prevented by making sure changes in
circumstances are actioned on time.”
The Department’s aim is to prevent
overpayments happening in the first place
– but once discovered, putting the claim
right, raising any overpayment straight
away and keeping it right is the key.
a housing benefit error.
“Once we’ve received the referral a
letter is sent to the customer to let
them know that they have been over
paid. This usually leads to the customer
calling in as they don’t understand
what’s happened or they disagree –
they can become very upset.
“When a mistake is down to us, it is
harder to recover and taxpayers’
money is often lost forever.”

But it is the few that slip through the
net that DWP is working hard to resolve.
Accuracy is vital in every exchange with
customers to make sure they get their
full entitlement and won’t have to pay
back overpayments later.
Chris Whitehead is a debt reassessment
team leader, based at Hyde Benefit
Delivery Centre and has also worked as
an income support training officer.
He says: “Hyde dealt with 35,000
cases this year. It’s our responsibility to
Once an overpayment is identified it is
referred to the Department’s Debt
Management service. In the last
financial year 1.3m cases were referred
and £271.6m was recovered.
Craig Bullimore is a recoveries adviser
within Debt Management. He is
responsible for contacting customers
once an error referral has been made.
Craig says: “We get official error
referrals from all of the businesses and
the local authorities, if there has been
There are usually lots of reasons for
official error, not least the complexity
of the benefit system – but sometimes
the causes are quite simple.
Not entering or checking the full
details associated with a claim – for
example, that a customer has income
and is also claiming another benefit
– is one of the factors behind a total
of £119 million being overpaid
annually across Pension Credit, Income
Support and Jobseekers Allowance.

Chris Whitehead’s tips for reducing error

Even though Chris works in Jobcentre Plus there are some basic things that apply Reasons for overpayments
across all the businesses: Official error – Where a mistake
• If you’re dealing with a change of circumstance make sure you action by staff results in
payment of benefit to someone who
it as quickly as possible – whether you’re taking the change from the is not entitled
or where a payment occurs at a wro
customer/third party or processing it ng rate
Customer error – Where a custome
• Make sure you pass on all relevant information to colleagues who need it as r inadvertently
provides incorrect information abo
soon as possible and that you also fully update information on relevant systems ut their situation
or fails to notify the Department of
as quickly as you can. a change in their
circumstances which results in ben
efit being paid at
Other things to consider: the wrong rate or to someone who
is not eligible
• Keep on top of guidance Fraud – Where a customer deliberat
ely misinforms
• Let the customer know that they should talk to their local authority about any or deliberately fails to inform the
Department of
changes in circumstance relevant information to obtain ben
efits to which
• Raise an overpayment at the same time as you action the change of they are not entitled.
circumstance.

16 | dwpeople | June 2008 Look out for more news on how DWP is improving the referral and
recovery process of overpayments, coming soon in DWPeople.

You’re history
Jennie lives life in the 15th century
LIFE is pretty hectic in the 21st century.
Mobile phones, laptops and the need
to get everywhere at breakneck speed,
have seen to that. Is it any wonder
some people turn to the past for a
simpler life?
Jennie Haynes, from the estates team
in Bradford, regularly escapes to the
15th century. She wears the clothes,
uses the language and even eats the
food of our ancestors.
After starting off with traditional village
fairs 11 years ago, Jennie and her
friends now specialise in civilian and
military life – recreating medieval
events on a grand scale.
They concentrate particularly on the
Wars of the Roses (a series of battles
between the good folk of York
and Lancashire).
With the increasing level of interest in
ancestry there is never any shortage of
people who want to get involved, with
Hobby of the month
many volunteers coming from the
local universities.
“It’s a great way of meeting new
people and there is such a great sense
of camaraderie,“ said Jennie.
“I make much of the period clothing
myself and have even been known to
create costumes during my lunch hour.
We really strive for a high level of
authenticity.
“Sometimes people arrive at the re-
enactments in their masses. We were in
Tewksbury to commemorate a battle
from 1471 and 3000 people turned
up,” she said.
Even the weapons used in the battles
are made to the exact specifications of
the era.
They are made from original materials
and forged using cast iron. The blades
are blunted but people, including the
women, don’t hold back during
attacks. People often sustain injuries
during the brutal exchanges, but
nothing too serious!
Using traditional techniques, it is
Jennie’s job to create authentic cuisine
for all the other re-enactors during the
summer weekends. She often cooks for
up to 20 people with everything being
prepared on a wood fire.
Her favourite dishes include the curious
‘erbolat’ which consists of baked eggs
with herbs and the more appetising
‘madira’ – a lamb number cooked with
onions and spices.
“By cooking this way I have become
a good judge of how hot a fire is,
and how long to cook things for,”
said Jennie.
Although she uses most of the original
utensils Jennie does allow herself the
use of one Kitchen Devil knife.
Well as long as she keeps going back
in time, it’s unlikely her past will catch
up with her!
July 2008 | dwpeople | 17
Achieving the best

TEAM OF THE MONTH

Sitting left to right: Sue Rooke (deputy PA manager), Dale Brumby (FJR/FA), Mags McGowen (PA). Standing left to right: Sara
Watts (PA), Jeanette James (FJR), Carla Buey (PA), Janet Curry (half hidden – CSO), Jenny Lazzari (CSM, FAM, FJR line manager),
Pauline Beresford (FA), Katrina Spilsbury (PA), Alison Andrews (PA), and Eithne Clements (FA). Also part of the team: Brenda
Radcliffe (FJR), Anne Cutts (front of house manager -– Cambridge, Ely Mildenhall and Newmarket and Neil Nineham (PA
manager Cambridge and Ely).

DWPeople’s Team of the Month didn’t let a major

fire stop them from helping their customers
Brenda Radcliffe, reception
WHEN the staff at Ely Jobcentre Plus “Three members of staff spent two
locked up for the night, they never weeks working from the hotel and “I was the first person to
expected their small rural office to be then moved into temporary know. At 3.30am my son had
the target of an arson attack. accommodation in a tiny room inside received a call from his fireman
the local housing office.” friend and when he woke me
“We have very few incidents, so it was Across their two temporary locations
quite a shock for staff to arrive at work the team were able to continue to tell me, I thought he was
to find that the office had been burned providing a service to their customers joking. I couldn’t believe this
out,” says Jenny Lazzari, the front of for the eight months that the Ely office could happen in Ely – it has
house line manager at the office. was out of bounds. so little trouble and was
totally unexpected.”
“I hadn’t registered the enormity “The team responded very well to the
of damage to our office until I incident. Although we were in two

“
saw it. It was very upsetting and separate offices, we remained in
I was in shock,” touch with each
adds personal I hadn’t registered other by email and Sara Watts, Personal Adviser
adviser Carla phone. Some of the
Buey. the enormity of staff who were in “I work term-time only and the
the
Cambridge helped fire happened at the beginning of
But the shock was the damage to our other colleagues summer holidays. I walked

”
ing
not enough to stop office until I saw it who could not drive past the office and saw a sign say
the team from with lifts to and ‘arson attack’. My young daught er
’s
leaping into action from work,” says who was with me said: “Mummy
and getting things up and running enquirers officer Janet Curry. lly
work has burned down!” I felt rea
again for their customers. this
“This was a difficult time made easier shocked and worried about what
Jenny says: “Within a matter of hours by the support of colleagues and we meant for the future, but my
we had front of house staff working are really thankful to our colleagues at colleagues were
very supportive and
out of a coach house at a local hotel Cambridge Jobcentre Plus who gave me lifts to and from work for
e
and the rest of the staff were moved supported us during this time and which I am so grateful. It would hav
this
to Cambridge around 16 miles away. helped us continue to provide a good been very difficult for me without
service,” added Jenny. consideration and kindness.”

18 | dwpeople | July 2008

St rs in
her eyes Fake That – above: Gary Bailey as Robbie
Williams. Left: Yvonne Hughes

David Hall meets

Yvonne Hughes –
charity fundraiser and
friend to the ‘stars’
IT’S CLEAR that DWP people are a
generous bunch, but one staff member
has real star quality when it comes to
charity work.
Since 1999, Yvonne Hughes from
Jobcentre Plus, Caernarfon, has been
arranging – and taking part in – charity
nights based on TV’s Stars in their Eyes.
In total she has raised an amazing
£30,000 for local charities.
It all started in August 1999 when
Yvonne joined the committee of
Caernarfon Town Football Supporters
Club and asked them if she could
organise a fun charity event.
“I put on an 80s night, bringing in
friends and colleagues from the club to
take part,” says Yvonne. “The tickets
were £1 each, and we held games of
bingo and sold raffle tickets. Everyone
who took part was sponsored and the
total money raised was nearly £1,000.
From then on I had the bug!”
on to the ‘real’ Stars in their Eyes.
Gary Bailey won his individual heat
on the show – as Robbie Williams
singing ‘Angels’ – and eventually
made it to the final.
Yvonne says: “The gang were so
proud of him, especially as we had
persuaded him to send off the
application form to the show!”
Next year Yvonne and her team will
celebrate 10 years of organising
these events and she is already
planning something special.
“I would love to get a local TV
company involved in filming the
whole event from start to finish,
showing how much organisation
goes on leading up to the event
itself and the presentation of the
cheque at the end,“ she says.
It’s been a busy year for Yvonne who
has already organised two successful
nights – raising £1,100 for Caernarfon
Town Floodlight Appeal and £850 for
Age Concern.
Yvonne added: “Over the years we
have had such great fun organising
and putting on the shows, it’s great
to get so much support from
friends and put something back
into the community.”

Since then, Yvonne has organised up

to three nights a year at the club. Each
night features around 30 different acts
– including tribute singers and bands,
dancers and stand-up comedians.

One of Yvonne’s singers even made it

With a little help from her friends: Yvonne’s nights have seen some ‘fab’ acts

July 2008 | dwpeople | 19

 S
15 M&
Wins £ ers
vouch

STAR LETTER
Sharing the love

LOVING the influx of human

Mystery caller
I REALLY enjoyed the June edition of
DWPeople...not so sure about the
instant interview column though.
It’s not so much the idea of a Q and
A – which is a good one – but the
interest stories in this month’s
DWPeople, especially the ones
about rugby hunk Danny Price,
the belly dancer and the lovely
Veterans Day tribute, which
treated a difficult subject with
great dignity.
I did find it unusual though to

“
thought of being randomly called up see Danny’s front
in my day-to-day job. cover story tucked
away in the inside cover. Don’t hide your treatments!
great stories
In fact on first glance I away – get Don't hide your great
missed it entirely – as that stories away DWPeople,
page is normally reserved
them in the get them in the centre
for dreary stories about centre pages “ pages where they
old buildings, dubious where they belong...!
competitions or adverts belong
for menopause Pamela Brie,
Corporate, London

I have enough to worry about

listening out for potential scams or
bogus callers without being stalked
by someone inside the Department.
How is this being regulated?
And how do we know we are
talking to the mystery interviewer
and not on the receiving end of
some dubious scam or cruel prank?
Mark Pie,
Jobcentre Plus, Dundee
John Pinching, writer DWPeople
responds:
Firstly, I’m glad you enjoy reading
the magazine.
Thank you for your concern regarding
the instant interview.
You’ll be reassured to hear that
whenever I select a member of staff I
always send an email confirming
exactly who I am, before the
interview begins.
Furthermore, the person is under no
obligation to take part and this is made
clear from the beginning.
Encouragingly, the participants so
far have been more than happy to
be involved.
Laser
BEING one of the many people who
have to wear glasses, I am very grateful
that the Department has a contract
which enables us to get a free eye
test and specs.
I wonder if any thought has been given
to funding laser eye surgery?

What do you think? Send your letters on

20 | dwpeople | July 2008
any subject to: letters@dwp.gsi.gov.uk

Using commercial figures (I’m sure
the contract gets a hefty discount) –
each eye test and specs costs upwards
of £100.
I’m looking into the possibility of
getting both my eyes ‘lasered’ at a cost
of about £700.
Therefore seven years of specs and the
laser looks to be a money spinner.
I’m sure the majority of staff serve
longer than seven years.
Mike Eyre, Jobcentre Plus,
Market Place
Recycling
I REALISE this is a subject that’s been
covered time and again but I still think
it is worth discussing.
I recently went to a meeting at the
Lytham St Annes site. This is now a
purely EDS building having been
vacated by DWP earlier this year.
What amazed me is that every couple
of hundred metres, there were five or
six recycle bins for various waste
including cans, plastic bottles, paper,
cardboard and glass.
Why can’t a government department
get its act together and start recycling
the huge amounts of waste we
generate in our offices?
Speaking to a colleague about it, he
advised that he had been to a Parity
training building which had recycling
bins and also a Government
Communications Network (GCN)
building that had this.
If another government department can
sort out a scheme, is this purely a DWP
problem?
It’s all very well saying people should
take their own waste home but let’s
face it – most people are too lazy to.
The amount of waste I see in the bins
in our kitchens is amazing.
Why can we not have a recycling
facility in our offices?
Simon Hurst, Corporate,
Peel Park
Swimming
IT’S A good idea to promote the
healthy benefits of swimming – but it
would be better if it was free for all
and that pools were available to use
throughout the UK.
Too many pools are lined up for closure
denying opportunities for communities.
Phil Reynolds, Jobcentre Plus,
Newquay
A reason to hope
MY SON James Rigby, was Rhys Jones’s
best friend. You may recall Rhys, an 11
year old boy who was shot dead whilst
walking home from football practice
last August.
All of Rhys’s friends have had a really
difficult time dealing with their loss,
however they are a good bunch, and
have remained positive, throwing their
full weight behind the Liverpool Unites
anti-gun campaign.
My son and the rest of Rhys’s friends
are taking part in the Liverpool Unites
‘Run for Rhys’ on 6 July.
The purpose of the 5km run is to raise
funds for the Rhys Jones Memorial
Community Centre, hopefully to be
built to help the young people of
Liverpool. Rhys’s parents, Melanie and
Stephen are fully backing this cause.
I was hoping to publicise this and
communicate to people how to
sponsor my son and his friends.
You can see my son’s website about
Rhys at: www.lovingmemoryof
rhys.piczo.com.
Also details of the Run for Rhys at:
www.runforrhys.org.uk
Rose Rigby, Corporate IT,
Birchwood
For your chance to win a
£15 M&S voucher send
your letters on any of this
month’s topics or
something new to
letters@dwp.gsi.gov.uk
July 2008 | dwpeople | 21
Feature
WHETHER you’re looking forward to a
week off to relax on the beach, taking
part of your pension early or saving
money on your summer holiday
childcare costs, it’s the benefits offered
by your employer that helps make
these things a reality.
It’s important to make the most of the
benefits of working at DWP. Whether it’s
flexible working, training opportunities
or health and wellbeing care, the
benefits and opportunities offered by
your employer can be as important to
many people as their annual salary.
HR is currently developing a new
range of opportunities and benefits
for staff – making the benefits currently
available clearer and easier to access.
By autumn this year, staff will be able to
access a newly revamped employee
benefits site, making it even easier to
find out what benefits are available. And
with the introduction of a new Total
Reward Statement staff can also work
out what all of their benefits are worth.
The hard copy, one off statement will
show staff the total value of the reward
package they have received in the
previous 12 months. The statement will
include both financial and non-financial
benefits including salary, allowances,
bonuses and salary sacrifice.
At the same time DWP will also
22 | dwpeople | July 2008
What’s in
it for me?
DWPeople finds out what staff
can expect from HR over the
coming year
introduce a new employee discount
scheme, giving all staff the opportunity
to get money off at major leisure and
retail outlets across the country.
DWP’s new HR Director General Chris
Last says: “Our aim in HR is to develop
a culture where people deliver great
customer service even while the number
of employees at DWP reduces.
“We also need to make sure that our
employees feel valued and rewarded
and have plenty of opportunities to
develop their skills.
“DWP has some innovative policies
around leave, equality and diversity and
pensions but we also have a lot of rigid
policies that can’t be tailored to
individual needs. We need to get the
balance right – focusing on what’s
important in a big organisation but still
giving managers the freedom to
manage. We get a lot of feedback that
the balance isn’t quite right yet and
there’s more to be done.”
A number of policies are currently being
reviewed, developed and changed
within HR. A review of PDS has already
begun, with feedback from employees
again being key to this process.
“The changes that were made last year
have improved some aspects of the
system, but people are also telling us
Did you know? Classroom learning accounts for 70 per cent of all
training. 18 per cent comes from e-learning.
about remaining concerns,” says Chris.
“The review involves looking at what
other organisations do, how our own
businesses are changing, and how we
could improve and modernise the
appraisal system so it meets our
requirements more effectively, now and
for the future. Employees will have the
opportunity to provide feedback as part
of this review.”
The Learning and Development (L&D)
improvement programme is also
underway to create easier access to
learning for staff when they need it –
and in a way that’s most useful to them.
Chris said: “We are running a
programme called ‘Making a
Difference’ which pilots in July and
then launches across DWP in early
2009. The programme will target
around 7,000 employees in
management roles and grades and give
them the confidence and skills to
effectively lead their teams during a
time of ongoing change.”
Chris added: “This is an exciting time
and some of the changes we have
planned will make a significant
difference for staff.”
For more information visit the
Department and You intranet site and
look out for further details coming
soon to Headline News.
 staff – team spirit
PDCS contact centre
Climbing the ladder
• Employee discount scheme with money off at The
major retailers and leisure outlets
benefits The Learning and
• Surgery sessions and one-to-one support and
coaching from HR that work Development improvement programme is
• Team leader events offering colleagues support for you underway to create easier access to learning
over common issues for staff – when they need it and in a way
• Masterclasses on topics such as attendance management, that’s most useful to them. Initatives
handling difficult conversations and skills practice iinclude:
• Opportunities to feedback and influence decision making e.g.
Framing the Future. • Access for all staff to a new DWP
Ayshea Myers, EO team leader, Seaham Pension Centre framework for building leadership and
“I’ve worked for DWP for a number of years and I’ve seen many management skills – providing more
changes within HR policy – they’ve all focused on giving as much opportunities for people to gain relevant
support and freedom to staff to be able to manage their own accreditations
expectations and feel confident in providing the optimum customer • Quick and easy access to a single catalogue
service. I think this shows that DWP supports its employees, of learning products on the intranet no
motivates self-belief and encourages individual’s views.” matter where you work in DWP
• More focused training and support for
HEO manager – leading the wa operations staff in customer facing roles
y
• Skills for Life – better staff support for
• Improved early talent development
gaining appropriate qualifications – including
• Better advice about wellbeing apprenticeships.
money off at
• Employee discount scheme with
major retailers and leisure outl ets
through the LEP
• Simplified recruitment into DWP The professionals
programme.
ingham
Simon Forrest, Jobcentre Plus Birm Changes are taking place
e leadership training available
“I’m glad to hear there will be mor within HR to increase the
become a better manager.
because I’d like more support to help function’s professionalism
loyee discount scheme – that’s
I’m also keen on the idea of an emp and improve the service offered to staff.
your flexi-time and pension
a brilliant idea! It’s a bit different from
e to staff and their families.”
and could make a financial differenc Chris Last said: “When staff come to a HR
business partner they want someone who is
back to Basecamp like a GP and knows enough to either identify
Senior Civil Service –
remedies to the problem or tell them where
• Improved executive talent programme they need to go for more specialist help.
• Childcare vouchers
• Improved service to support organisational “That’s what I want my HR business partners
development to be, and this requires a depth and breadth
• Consulting and coaching for change management. of skills to deliver that GP role. We need to
Paul Williams, Customer Services director help them achieve this and to develop more
specialist knowledge where appropriate.”
“It is each individual’s responsibility to take ownership of their
development. But DWP supports this with a development framework
which encourages individuals to flourish. For me, new to the SCS, All things being equal
Basecamp was a terrific foundation. I’m hoping the new strategy for
addressing SCS development needs provides the next steps.”
Diversity Week is taking
JCP customer facing place in November.
staff – a healthy
workplace The week will include a
• Support and training for ESA deliv
ery wide range of regional
• Total Reward Statements events and activities to
• Access to wellbeing advice help all staff learn more about diversity, share
opportunities – 40 per cent of
• More apprenticeships and NVQ knowledge and think about how they can
ice and Guidance NVQs and
personal advisers already have Adv make a difference to the lives of their
towards their NVQs at any one
more than 400 advisers are working colleagues and customers. The week ends
time work. It with a conference in Birmingham on 28
as many people as possible attend
• Focus 4000 – a programme to help g and pers ona l con sultation and November.
health screenin
includes Right Core Care access to
se on long term sickness cases.
senior ATOS doctors available to advi
iser from Bolton
Gail Stocks, Jobcentre Plus adv entre Plus initiative.
at Work’ group which is a new Jobc
“I am already part of a ‘Wellbeing in the office. Our
wellbeing ideas that we can use
We meet each week to discuss new from the local market to
buy different kinds of fruit
ideas include a fruit day – where we th tests , diab etes tests and July 2008 | dwpeople | 23
also advise on free hea
get staff to try something new. We usiastic abo ut it.”
team is really enth
NHS health checks. Everyone in the
Busted!
Read all about it!
FINDING a new job, catching up with
gossip or holding your fish and chips –
newspapers come in handy for all sorts
of things.
In Carlisle the local press has definitely
had its uses, helping DWP to track
down a benefit thief and bring her
to justice.
In August 2006 Sonya Kennedy, aged
45, was given a suspended sentence.
While working as a door-to-door
saleswoman she robbed a pensioner
in his own home, taking a wallet
containing £790.
Carlisle’s local paper – The News and
Star – published the court report.
An eagle-eyed investigator raised the
alarm, as the article said Kennedy was
claiming benefits as well as working.
DWP records show Kennedy started
claiming Income Support for herself,
her partner and two children in August
2002. She began claiming Disability
Living Allowance in April 2003 and
also received Housing and Council
Tax benefits.
24 | dwpeople | July 2008
NEWSPAPER REPORT
HELPS DWP TO CATCH
BENEFIT FRAUDSTER
In total, she fraudulently claimed
£23,071.95.
DWP’s Alan Robinson and Ann Fyfe
worked on the investigation. Alan
says: “We started surveillance and
saw Kennedy and her partner
going door to door trying to get
people to sign up for satellite TV
and phone packages.
“The couple were self-employed so
their hours varied but it was obvious
that Kennedy was able to work. She
didn’t need these benefits and we
had the perfect evidence to support
our case.”
Caught in the act: Sonya Kennedy
DWP traced financial records that
showed Kennedy and her partner claiming because she had a debt of
earned more than £9,000 between approximately £1,500.
January 2006 and April 2007.
At Carlisle Crown Court, Kennedy
Kennedy was brought in and was sentenced to 36 weeks for
interviewed under caution. She the DWP offences. The 12-week
admitted making false benefit claims suspended sentence was also invoked,
and explained that she had started giving a total sentence of 48 weeks.
“
“
We had perfect evidence
DWP staff can report benefit fraud using the PPQ form on the desktop

Lair of
the dog
To paraphrase DWP’s
benefit fraud adverts,
perhaps it’s a case of
‘No ifs, no mutts’ as
Busted! reports on an
extraordinary ‘tail’
A BRIGHTON man is facing three
years in prison (or should that be the
doghouse?) – after DWP investigators
were given a very unusual lead.
Kevin Montague, of Montpelier Place,
Brighton, was jailed for making false
statements in order to obtain benefits.
In total he claimed £10,690 in Income
Support, £28,691 in Housing Benefit
and £2,287 in Council Tax benefit.
Prosecuting Counsel Lawrence
Henderson told Lewes Crown Court
how the case against Montague –
who sometimes operates under the
surname Gibney – came to light.
In May 2007, Montague was on
probation for another crime. He
breached his conditions and was
sent to prison to serve the rest of
his sentence.
An associate was asked to look after
his dog. But as arrangements were
being made for the pet’s care,
£34,000 was found hidden in the
cushion of the dog’s bed.
The money was handed in to
Sussex Police and Montague was
further arrested on suspicion of
money laundering.
Members of the public can report suspicions on the National Benefit Fraud Hotline (0800 854 440)
“
Audacious “ Joining forces
dishonesty
The police started an investigation
to find out where the money had
come from. It quickly became clear
that he was committing benefit fraud
too so DWP and Brighton & Hove
City Council joined the operation.
As well as the money in the dog
basket, investigators found that
Montague had nearly £300,000
of undeclared money in various
bank accounts.
At sentencing, His Honour Judge
Niblett said that the public
expected Montague to be dealt
with severely and that he had
shown “audacious dishonesty”.
Montague was given three years in
prison for the Income Support fraud,
two years for the Housing Benefit
fraud and one year for the Council
Tax Benefit fraud. All sentences will
run concurrently.
A confiscation hearing will also take
place in September 2008.
Busted!
ustr
atio
n
ill
ple
WPeo
D
IN APRIL, local authorities were
given new powers to bring even
more benefit thieves to justice.
The new laws mean that local
authorities can now investigate
and prosecute on DWP’s behalf.
So if someone is committing fraud
against one of DWP’s benefits and
either Housing Benefit or Council
Tax Benefit, they can be dealt with
in one case.
The legislation covers cases involving
Income Support, Incapacity Benefit,
Jobseeker’s Allowance, State Pension
Credit, and the new Employment
and Support Allowance when it
launches in October.
In each case, the Fraud Investigation
Service will work closely with the
relevant local authority to supply
information and support the case.
DWP and local authorities have
already worked on many joint
prosecutions and the recent
changes will lead to even more
successful convictions.
July 2008 | dwpeople | 25
 
Quiz Time

the fantastic film fact finder

Clues
1. Central character in the 1978 biopic The Buddy Holly Story
take 2 (5,5)
2. Woody Allen’s ‘Hall’ of fame (5)
3. Planes, _______, and Automobiles (6)
4. Rockstar that put in a memorable ‘performance’ (4,6)
5. Sounds better than silence (3,9)
A hearty pat on the back to everybody who responded to 6. Talented, but a Coward (4)
last month’s tricky film quiz.

The answers were Danny, Ronnie Kray, Alec Guinness, Carry

Answers
On Films, Uma Thurman, Lord of the Flies and Apocalypse
Now. Taking the first letter from each would form a name
that still strikes fear into mankind – the original prince of
darkness, Dracula.

Nearly all of you impressed with your excellent knowledge

of the movies but, alas, there can only be one winner. Take
a bow, Melanie Paisley.

£15 of HMV vouchers are on their way to you!

For another chance to win the prize why not try your luck
this time. The rules are the same as last time. Answer all the
questions and take the first letter from each to form the
name of a box-office smash hit from 1989.

 Please email your answers – showing all your working – to john.pinching@dwp.gsi.gov.uk by 30 July 2008

Crossword The winner of

Last month’s answers
Across 1. Disturbance 9. Reading 10. Birch 11. Noose
12. Artwork 13. Soweto 15. Adults 18. Tabloid 20. Ankle
22. Evita 23. Equator 24. Kevin Spacey
Down 2. Idaho 3. Trident 4. Reggae 5. Abbot 6. Carroll
7. Trendsetter 8. Shakespeare 14. Website 16. Dracula
17. Adders 19. Okapi 21. Katie
the £15 Marks and
Spencer voucher was
Across Jane Smith
6. Julia, female star of hit movie ‘Charlie Wilson's War’ (7) from Hastings BDC.
7. Jomo Kenyatta was this country's first president (5)
9. Leona, who had a massive hit single with ‘Bleeding Love’ (5)
10. ‘The _______ Boys’, a hit play written by Alan Bennett (7)
12. Country noted for its neutrality in the world wars of the 20th Century (11)
14. Dramatic production (11)
18. Certificate which allows people to purchase goods (7)
19. Boris Johnson’s London job (5)
Send in your completed crossword,
21. One of twelve in a year (5) details and answer to the question
22. Earnest attempts (7) below to:
DWPeople Crossword Competition,
Down Laura Turvey, Room 650, Caxton
1. John Paul ______, an American naval commander in House, 6 -12 Tothill Street, London
the American Revolution (5) SW1H 9NA.
2. Critical article on a play or film (6) Competition closes on 15 August.
3. Enclosure for pigs (3)
To be in with a chance of winning
4. Plant whose seeds are favoured by vegetarians (6) please tell us what your favourite
5. Pipe at the side of the road, connected to the main feature in this issue was?
water system (7) _______________________________
8. Sharp-tasting liquid sprinkled on chips (7) _______________________________
11. Person who gets a race underway (7) Name:
13. Metal container in which liquids are kept under ........................................................
pressure and forced out in a spray (7) Full address:
.......................................................
15. Flat, polished surfaces cut on a gemstone (6)
........................................................
16. Stick of coloured wax (6) ........................................................
17. Musical _____ had a big hit single in 1992 with ........................................................
‘Pass The Dutchie’ (5)
20. Immature newt (3)
 Feature

The instant interview

EVERY month an interviewee is
selected at random from the
DWP global address book. This
month our subject is…
How long have you worked for the
Department?
Nearly three years.
What do you do?
First contact officer at Jobcentre Plus
Bootle, I am also branch officer for
PCS.
What is the best aspect of your
job?
Dealing with customers from all walks
of life.
Is there anything about your job
that you dislike?
I am too busy to engage with my
colleagues and team as much as I
would like.
What’s been the highlight of your
career?
Receiving recognition from customers,
thanking me for my help. From a PCS
aspect it has been reaching level 2 in
health and safety.
What was the last film you
watched?
Sex and the City
Which music would you use for the
soundtrack of your life?
Candi Staton - You’ve Got the Love
What is your favourite meal?
Anything Chinese, favourite would
probably be fillet steak Cantonese.
If you could paint your office in the
colour of your choice, what would
it be?
Red for Liverpool.
Do you have any hobbies?
Socialising with my friends, running,
and reading Dan Brown books.
What are you doing tonight?
I am going to the local pub for my tea,
with my mum and sister, and then will
be going home in time for Big Brother
(sad, but I’m addicted).

from Jobcentre Plus in Liverpool

DWPeople classifieds
NEW FOREST. LODGES.
Traditional Victorian farmhouse
has cosy, 1 double bedroom
lodge, with glass doors leading
from lounge onto large wooden
decked area, sleeps four and
separate large two bedroom
lodge, sleeps six, both have
uninterrupted views of gorgeous
countryside.
award winning South coast
beaches. For info 01425
472115
ROME CITY CENTRE, Testaccio.
Two new apartments sleep four
people in each. From 90 Euros
per apartment per night. 10 per
cent discount to DWP
employees.

Access to forest, trailway for For further info:

cycling, walking and horse http://rentintestaccio.googlepag
riding. Swimming pool (heated). es.com email:
Within easy reach of beautiful rentintestaccio@googlemail.com

July 2008 | dwpeople | 27

 dwpeople
DWPeople is taking a break for the summer – but we will be back in September
with more features, staff stories and favourites such as Busted!, Team of the
Month and the monthly quizzes.

The September issue will include features on:

• 100 years of state pensions

• Community 5000
• Wellbeing at work
• Making a difference

and lots more…

Have a great summer – see you in September, from the team at DWPeople.