What is the Universal Credit Work-Related Activity Group (WRAG)?
The Universal Credit Work-Related Activity Group (WRAG) is a category within Universal Credit that applies to people who are considered capable of preparing for work, but who may not be ready to start working immediately due to health conditions or other circumstances. If you are placed in the WRAG, it means the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has assessed your ability to work and decided that, while you are not required to look for a job right away, you should take steps to get ready for work in the future.
Who is placed in the WRAG?
You may be placed in the Work-Related Activity Group if you have a limited capability for work, often following a Work Capability Assessment. This typically applies if you have a health condition or disability that makes it difficult to work at the moment, but you could reasonably be expected to take part in activities to improve your chances of finding work later. The decision is based on DWP guidelines and your individual circumstances.
How does being in the WRAG affect your Universal Credit?
If you are in the WRAG, you will have specific work-related requirements. These usually include attending regular meetings with your work coach, taking part in training or skills assessments, or preparing a CV. However, you will not be required to actively search for a job or apply for jobs until you are considered ready. Your Universal Credit payment may include an additional amount if you have been found to have a limited capability for work and work-related activity.
It’s important to understand exactly what is expected of you in this group, as failing to meet your work-related requirements could affect your Universal Credit payments. For detailed information about the requirements and benefits associated with being in the Work-Related Activity Group, see the Work-Related Activity Group details.
Why does your group status matter?
Knowing which Universal Credit group you are in helps you manage your benefits and responsibilities effectively. Being in the WRAG comes with specific rules and support, so it’s important to check your placement regularly, especially if your circumstances change. Understanding your group status ensures you receive the correct support and avoid any issues with your Universal Credit claim.
If you believe you have been placed in the wrong group or your situation has changed – for example, your health has improved or worsened – it’s important to notify the DWP as soon as possible. This helps make sure your Universal Credit claim remains accurate and you get the right level of support.
Who qualifies for the Work-Related Activity Group?
Who qualifies for the Work-Related Activity Group?
To be placed in the Universal Credit Work-Related Activity Group (WRAG), you must have a health condition or disability that makes it harder for you to work, but does not prevent you from working altogether. This group is sometimes called having “limited capability for work.” Being in the WRAG means you are expected to take steps to prepare for work, such as attending interviews or training, but you are not required to look for a job immediately.
Criteria for the Work-Related Activity Group
The main criteria for being placed in the WRAG are:
You have a physical or mental health condition or disability.
Your condition makes it unreasonable or impossible for you to work right now, but you could work in the future with support.
You do not meet the stricter criteria for the Support Group (also known as having “limited capability for work and work-related activity”), which is for people whose health condition or disability means they are not expected to work or prepare for work at all.
The legal rules for this assessment are set out in the Universal Credit Regulations 2013, Regulation 29. This regulation explains that you can be placed in the WRAG if, after a Work Capability Assessment, it is decided that your health condition limits your ability to work, but you are still able to do some work-related activities.
How does the WRAG differ from other Universal Credit groups?
Universal Credit has several work-related activity groups, each with different expectations:
Work-Related Activity Group (WRAG): You have limited capability for work. You need to take steps to get ready for work, but you are not expected to apply for jobs.
Support Group: You have limited capability for work and work-related activity. You are not expected to work or take steps to prepare for work due to the severity of your condition.
All Work-Related Requirements Group: You are expected to look for and apply for jobs.
No Work-Related Requirements Group: You are not required to look for work, for example if you are caring for a young child.
How does the DWP decide if you qualify?
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is responsible for assessing which group you should be placed in. The process usually involves:
Work Capability Assessment (WCA): This is a medical assessment to determine how your condition affects your ability to work. You might be asked to attend a face-to-face assessment, complete a questionnaire, and provide medical evidence.
Evidence Review: The DWP will look at any supporting evidence you provide, such as doctor’s notes, hospital letters, or statements from other professionals involved in your care.
Decision: Based on the assessment and evidence, the DWP will decide if you have limited capability for work (WRAG), limited capability for work and work-related activity (Support Group), or if you are fit for work.
If you are placed in the WRAG, your claimant commitment will be tailored to your situation. This sets out what you are expected to do to keep receiving Universal Credit. The DWP should take your health condition or disability into account when setting these requirements.
What evidence or assessments are used?
The main evidence the DWP uses includes:
The Work Capability Assessment (WCA): This is the primary tool for deciding group placement.
Medical evidence: Letters from your GP, hospital, or other healthcare professionals.
Self-assessment forms: You may be asked to fill in a questionnaire about how your condition affects your daily life.
Any other relevant documents: For example, care plans or social services reports.
Providing as much relevant evidence as possible can help ensure you are placed in the correct group. If you disagree with the decision, you have the right to ask for a mandatory reconsideration.
For more details about the legal rules that apply, see Universal Credit Regulations 2013, Regulation 29.
If you need help understanding your claimant commitment or what the DWP expects from you, visit the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) guidance on Scope’s website.
How to check if you’re in the right Work-Related Activity Group
How to check if you’re in the right Work-Related Activity Group
Making sure you’re in the correct Universal Credit Work-Related Activity Group (WRAG) is important, as it affects what’s expected of you and what support you receive. Here’s how you can find out which group you’re in, what to do if you think there’s a mistake, and who to contact if you need your situation reviewed.
Find out which group you’re in
When you first claim Universal Credit, you’re placed into a work-related activity group based on your individual circumstances, health, and ability to work. This decision is usually made during the assessment phase, which considers information you provide when applying for Universal Credit and any medical evidence you submit.
To check which group you’ve been assigned to, there are two main places to look:
Your Universal Credit journal: Log in to your Universal Credit online account and check your journal for messages from your work coach or the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). They often confirm your group placement here.
Decision letters: After your Work Capability Assessment, you should receive a decision letter explaining which group you’re in – either the Work-Related Activity Group or another group. This letter outlines what’s expected of you and the reasons for the decision.
If you’re unsure, ask your work coach directly through your journal or at your next appointment. They can confirm your current group and explain what it means for your Universal Credit claim.
Review your group placement
It’s a good idea to regularly review your group placement, especially if your health or circumstances change. Your group affects the type of work-related activities you’re expected to do, such as attending interviews, training, or looking for work. If you believe you’ve been placed in the wrong group, or your situation has changed (for example, your health has worsened), you have the right to challenge or request a reassessment.
What to do if you think your group placement is wrong
If you think you’ve been incorrectly placed in the Work-Related Activity Group, here’s what you can do:
Check your journal and decision letter for details about why you were placed in your group.
Gather any new evidence – such as updated medical reports or letters from your doctor – that support your case.
Contact your work coach through your Universal Credit journal to explain why you think your group is incorrect.
Request a mandatory reconsideration if you disagree with the decision. This is the first step in challenging a Universal Credit decision. You must do this within one month of receiving your decision letter.
If your circumstances change at any time – for example, if you develop a health condition or your existing condition worsens – it’s important to report this as soon as possible. This helps keep your group status up to date and ensures you get the right support. Learn more about reporting changes on Universal Credit.
Who to contact for reassessment or to challenge a decision
If you need your work-related activity group placement reviewed, you should:
Speak to your work coach via your Universal Credit journal or during an appointment.
Contact the Universal Credit helpline if you need further guidance or can’t access your online account.
Request a Work Capability Assessment if your health has changed and you think you should be in a different group.
Remember, you have the right to challenge any decision you disagree with. Start by requesting a mandatory reconsideration. If you’re still unhappy after this, you can appeal the decision to an independent tribunal.
By staying informed and proactive, you can make sure your Universal Credit claim reflects your current needs and circumstances. For more information on how your group is determined, see our guide to applying for Universal Credit, and for ongoing updates, read about reporting changes on Universal Credit.
What does being in the Work-Related Activity Group mean for you?
What does being in the Work-Related Activity Group mean for you?
If you’ve been placed in the Work-Related Activity Group (WRAG) as part of your Universal Credit claim, it means you’re considered capable of preparing for work, even if you’re not ready to start a job right away. This group is designed to help you move closer to employment by focusing on building your skills, confidence, and readiness for work.
Work Preparation Requirements
While you’re in the WRAG, you’ll be expected to take part in activities that help you prepare for work. These might include attending training courses, updating your CV, attending regular meetings with your work coach, or taking part in work experience placements. The specific activities will depend on your personal circumstances and will be agreed with your work coach as part of your Universal Credit Claimant Commitment.
The legal basis for these requirements is set out in the Universal Credit Regulations 2013, Regulation 35, which outlines what counts as work preparation and the expectations for claimants in this group.
How Your Payments May Be Affected
Being in the WRAG can affect your Universal Credit payments compared to other groups. While you continue to receive your standard Universal Credit allowance, you may not receive the same additional elements or support as those placed in the Support Group, who have more limited capability for work and work-related activity. It’s important to understand the requirements and benefits while on Universal Credit, as these can vary depending on your group placement.
Your Rights and Responsibilities
As a member of the WRAG, you have both rights and responsibilities. You are entitled to support from your work coach and access to resources that can help you prepare for future employment. However, you’re also responsible for taking reasonable steps to meet your work preparation requirements. If you don’t take part in agreed activities without good reason, you could face sanctions, which may reduce your Universal Credit payments.
You have the right to ask for reasonable adjustments if you have a health condition or disability that affects your ability to take part in certain activities. If you believe your placement in the WRAG isn’t correct, you can request a review or challenge the decision.
Support and Next Steps
Being in the WRAG gives you access to tailored support that can help you get ready for work at your own pace. Your work coach can help you identify suitable training, volunteering, or work experience opportunities. If your circumstances change – such as getting a job or pay rise while on Universal Credit – it’s important to update your work coach so your Universal Credit can be adjusted accordingly.
Understanding your WRAG status is key to making the most of the support available and ensuring you meet your obligations. If you’re unsure about what’s expected of you, or if your situation changes, always speak to your work coach for guidance.
How your health condition or disability affects your WRAG placement
When you claim Universal Credit and have a health condition or disability, this can directly affect which Work-Related Activity Group (WRAG) you are placed in. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) uses information about your health to decide what work-related activities, if any, you are expected to do while claiming benefits.
How health conditions and disabilities are considered
If you declare a health condition or disability when applying for Universal Credit, you may be asked to provide medical evidence, such as a fit note from your GP. This helps the DWP understand how your condition impacts your ability to work or undertake work-related activities. Your placement in the WRAG is based on whether your condition limits your ability to work right now, or if you could prepare for work in the future with support.
The role of medical assessments and fit notes
After you submit a fit note, you may be referred for a Work Capability Assessment (WCA). This assessment looks at how your health affects your day-to-day activities and work prospects. The outcome of the WCA determines whether you:
Are fit for work and must look for jobs
Have limited capability for work (LCW) and are placed in the WRAG, where you are expected to take steps to prepare for work
Have limited capability for work and work-related activity (LCWRA), meaning you are not required to look for work or undertake work preparation
If you disagree with the outcome, you have the right to challenge the decision. Always keep copies of your medical evidence and assessment reports, as these can support your case if you need to request a review.
Your rights to reasonable adjustments and accommodations
If you are placed in the WRAG and asked to look for work or take part in work-related activities, you have the right to reasonable adjustments. This means employers and the Jobcentre must consider changes to help you manage your health condition or disability. Adjustments could include flexible hours, adapted equipment, or extra support during interviews and appointments.
You can learn more about your rights to flexible working and accommodations, including how to request changes and what support you are entitled to under UK law.
Requesting flexible working arrangements
If you find that your health condition makes it difficult to meet your WRAG requirements, you can ask for flexible arrangements. This might include:
Changing your work search hours or activities
Attending Jobcentre appointments remotely
Adjusting job goals to match your health needs
To request these adjustments, speak to your Universal Credit work coach and provide medical evidence if possible. They are required to consider your individual circumstances and make reasonable changes to your claimant commitment.
Understanding how your health affects your WRAG placement helps ensure you get the right support and are treated fairly while claiming Universal Credit. If your condition changes, always update your work coach and provide new medical evidence to review your group placement.
What to do if you think your WRAG placement is wrong
What to do if you think your WRAG placement is wrong
If you believe you have been placed in the wrong Universal Credit Work-Related Activity Group (WRAG), it’s important to act quickly to protect your rights and ensure you receive the correct support. Here’s what you should do:
1. Request a Mandatory Reconsideration
The first step is to ask for a mandatory reconsideration. This is a formal review of the decision about your WRAG placement by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). You must do this within one month of the date on your decision letter. Acting quickly is essential – delays could mean you miss the chance to challenge the decision and might have to meet work requirements that aren’t suitable for your situation.
When requesting a reconsideration, clearly explain why you think the placement is wrong. For example, you might feel that your health condition or disability was not fully taken into account, or that new evidence has come to light. Make sure to provide any supporting documents, such as medical reports or letters from your doctor.
For more details about the claims and reconsideration process, including what is required when submitting your request, you can refer to the Social Security (Claims and Payments) Regulations 1987, Regulation 8. This regulation outlines how to properly complete and submit a claim or request, ensuring your application is processed correctly.
2. Appeal the Decision if Necessary
If the mandatory reconsideration does not change the decision, you have the right to appeal. You must submit your appeal to an independent tribunal within one month of receiving the reconsideration notice. The tribunal will review your case and make a final decision.
During the appeal, you can present further evidence and explain your circumstances in more detail. It may help to prepare a written statement and gather any new information that supports your case.
3. Get Advice and Support
Challenging a WRAG placement can be stressful, but you don’t have to do it alone. There are organisations and advice services that can help you:
Citizens Advice and other local advice centres can help you understand your rights, fill in forms, and prepare for appeals.
Support groups for people with disabilities or long-term health conditions often have experience with Universal Credit and can offer guidance.
If you’re unsure about any part of the process, getting advice early can make a big difference.
4. Why Acting Quickly Matters
It’s crucial to challenge an incorrect WRAG placement as soon as possible. If you don’t, you might be required to look for work or attend activities that are not suitable for your health condition. This could affect your wellbeing and even risk your Universal Credit payments if you cannot meet the requirements.
Remember, strict time limits apply at each stage, so don’t delay. If you’re struggling to meet a deadline, let the DWP know as soon as possible and explain your reasons – they may allow extra time in some circumstances.
By following these steps, you can make sure your Universal Credit work-related requirements are fair and reflect your situation. For more information about the claims process and your rights, see the Social Security (Claims and Payments) Regulations 1987, Regulation 8.
How your WRAG status affects your finances and Universal Credit payments
When you’re placed in the Universal Credit Work-Related Activity Group (WRAG), your status directly affects your finances, including the amount of Universal Credit you receive, what extra support you can access, and how you need to manage your money day-to-day. Understanding these impacts can help you make the most of your entitlements and avoid problems with your payments.
How WRAG placement affects your Universal Credit payments
If you’re in the WRAG, you may be entitled to additional amounts on top of your standard Universal Credit payment. This is because the system recognises that you have a limited capability for work due to health conditions or disabilities, but you are still expected to take steps towards finding work.
The exact rules about how your payments are calculated are set out in Universal Credit Regulations 2013, Regulation 7. In summary, being in the WRAG means you might receive an extra amount known as the Limited Capability for Work (LCW) element. However, not everyone in the WRAG receives this automatically, especially if their Universal Credit claim started after April 2017, so it’s important to check your award letter or online account for details.
Budgeting advances and managing your money
If you find yourself struggling to cover essential costs – such as rent, bills, or emergency expenses – while waiting for your next Universal Credit payment, you may be able to apply for a Universal Credit budgeting advance. This is an interest-free loan from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) that can help bridge the gap in your finances. You’ll need to pay it back through future Universal Credit payments, so consider carefully whether you can afford the repayments.
Help with rent, debts, and other financial support
Being in the WRAG doesn’t just affect your Universal Credit payments – it can also influence what extra help you can get if you’re struggling with rent or have debts. If you’re finding it hard to pay your rent or have fallen into arrears, you may be eligible for additional support. Find out more about the options available for help with debt and rent arrears while claiming Universal Credit.
Special considerations if you’re self-employed
If you’re self-employed and in the WRAG, your Universal Credit payments may be calculated differently compared to those who are employed or not working. The DWP uses a system called the Minimum Income Floor, which may affect the amount you receive. For a full explanation of how your payments are worked out and what you need to report, visit Universal Credit payments for self-employed.
Reporting your earnings correctly
Accurate reporting of your earnings is essential to ensure you receive the correct Universal Credit payment. This is especially important if you’re self-employed, as your income can vary from month to month. The DWP requires you to report your earnings regularly and provide evidence if asked. For step-by-step guidance, see reporting self-employed earnings.
Understanding how your WRAG status affects your finances is key to managing your Universal Credit claim effectively. If you have concerns about your payments or need extra support, make sure to explore the resources linked above for further advice and practical help.
