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Original poster

UC Note "We have arranged a compliance telephone interview for you" having a panic attack

65 replies

courtneyk92 · 31/07/2025 08:26

I am having a panic attack. I have social anxiety, I receive LCWRA and PIP, along with universal credit. I was awarded LCWRA Years ago, and never been reviewed, I am a 33 year old mum of two little boys age 8 and 6. One who is autistic and receives DLA. I Received a note about a compliance interview today and a letter. I don't know what it could be about, my son was awarded and backdated DLA only a few weeks ago… on the 30th June and today on the 30th July, Receive a letter that says "Notice of a compliance telephone interview We need to discuss your Universal Credit claim
Dear [named redacted by MNHQ]
We need to speak to you about your Universal Credit claim.
A compliance officer will call you on (my number) to conduct a telephone interview.
Your interview will be on 6 August 2025 at 10am.
If you do not answer when we call, your Universal Credit may be affected. You must tell us before the appointment if you will not be available at this time.
Yours sincerely,
S Thorpe

I feel sick when you google compliance interviews it says because you've been suspected of fraud, I cant stop crying I feel so sick, my interview is 6th aug, I wont be able to eat or sleep until then, can any one ease my mind. I'm crying my eyes out I cant even breathe.

OP posts:
ChrisMartinsKisskam · 01/08/2025 08:10

It could be that any backdated amount has put you over the 6k limitg where they have to reduce your ESA by a few pounds.

it’s also protected for a year and not counted if it’s a backdated payment so it won’t count
but sometimes the systems don’t match up / work together

compliance is where there is a mistake / possible fraud and they are just checking

if it’s a standard UC review then that’s when they want 4 months of bank statements & ID but it would say that in the UC account that’s what they want

LakieLady · 01/08/2025 08:08

Rituelec · 01/08/2025 07:56

I had this. Despite the lady suggesting I should have perhaps had an abortion, I just declared everything was still the same and that was that.

Good grief, is this for real?

I'd have put in a complaint about that, I think. It's an appalling thing to say.

Some work coaches say dreadful things to clients. One of my clients was told that all her health issues would be resolved if she lost weight. She has severe MH issues and weight gain is a side effect of the only medication that keeps her psychosis under control.

Rituelec · 01/08/2025 07:56

I had this. Despite the lady suggesting I should have perhaps had an abortion, I just declared everything was still the same and that was that.

Theroadt · 01/08/2025 07:55

Soontobe60 · 01/08/2025 06:51

It’s not horribly worded at all! It’s concise, factual and fair - or do you not think there should be any checks on people who claim UC?

Show quote history

I agree. If OP has complied with the rules then she has nothing to worry about. It is a good thing imo that they review cases regularly.

BillStickersWillBeProsocuted · 01/08/2025 07:55

I was checked last year, it's was a routine check, we hadn't been reported or anything (at least I don't think so!). You'll need to provide things like bank statements and declare any accounts with money including things like PayPal. But assuming you've been telling the truth and not claiming falsely you have nothing to worry about

LadyLapsang · 01/08/2025 07:43

@courtneyk92 I would suggest asking MNHQ to redact the name of the official from your opening post. It is highly unlikely this person is a member of the Senior Civil Service and so the convention is that they would not be named.

If you have been claiming in accordance with the regulations you shouldn’t worry - just be open and straightforward. If, however, there has been a change in your circumstances, e.g. you have been living with a partner or your health has improved and you may be capable of some work or preparing for work etc., then now is the time to proactively declare it.

Flightyandmighty · 01/08/2025 07:36

It’s standard I’ve had a few over the years try not to worry.

tumblingdowntherabbithole · 01/08/2025 07:23

Is your social anxiety the reason you’ve been awarded LCWRA? I just wonder if they’re reviewing your circumstances as you have children and maybe feel as though you should be able to work at least part-time.

Thequeenofwishfulthinking · 01/08/2025 07:14

@Soontobe60 nothings been said by the OP which would suggest shes acted fraudulently. I wont assume this is the case. You are entitled to your own opinion.

Ehunt1 · 01/08/2025 07:12

According to my local job centre, DWP are doing a huge review of people receiving universal credit, apparently during covid nobody was checking claims properly so a lot of fraudulent claims were being put in under fake identities for example, so they are having to check everyone.

AlertEagle · 01/08/2025 07:02

courtneyk92 · 31/07/2025 08:56

I hope it's this because im paranoid everyone around me is my enemy and reporting me for things I have not done. my son was awarded dla with a rather large backdate 30th June and I received this compliance interview 30th July so hopefully

Show quote history

What is everyone reporting you about

Soontobe60 · 01/08/2025 06:55

Thequeenofwishfulthinking · 01/08/2025 06:48

@MickGeorge22- you can't possibly know this even if you work for the benefit fraud team.
Maybe in this instance somebody felt the need to check. The receipt of DLA is the most recent change in respect of the OPs entitlement. It's whether or not this is the trigger.
Personally I don't think it will be related to the DLA. I was just thinking of every possible scenario.
If the OP comes back and wants to provide further information thats not too personal people will be happy to help and advise the best they can.
I do hope no.one has reported you for fraud OP..

Even if fraud has been committed?

Soontobe60 · 01/08/2025 06:54

XenoBitch · 31/07/2025 16:15

It usually says on those letters what it is about (housing costs etc), so to leave you in the dark that... it is no wonder you are panicking.

The letter did say - it’s to check the OP circumstances are compliant with being paid UC. You can’t get any more clear than that.

Soontobe60 · 01/08/2025 06:51

Fromage · 31/07/2025 09:10

Theybreally need to reword this shit, it does make me cross. Who wouldn't be panicking.

They are doing a check up. Do you have a work coach or similar? Someone who can talk you down, explain, help yyou out?

Can you have someone also on the line for the interview? Anything that will help.

I am assuming they've not sent you any forms to fill in, so this is just a checking in, because they realise they've forgotten to check up on you sooner. Not your fault, and that you've been thrown into a panic is something you should raise with them. Just factually, don't get cross with them.

Write down notes, questions - because you can also ask how often you can expect a review - any other information, queries etc. You can tell them if anything has changed for the worse in your situation.

You can also say that the date clashes with an existing commitment (you don't have to be specific) and request the interview be postponed.

But for now, breathe, do whatever you need to calm down, have a cup of tea and a biscuit, and contact your UC person/job coach.

Then plan anything you can that's nice for today. Flop in front of the tv, go feed some ducks, tell yourself you have done all you can today about that horribly worded letter.

It’s not horribly worded at all! It’s concise, factual and fair - or do you not think there should be any checks on people who claim UC?

Thequeenofwishfulthinking · 01/08/2025 06:48

@MickGeorge22- you can't possibly know this even if you work for the benefit fraud team.
Maybe in this instance somebody felt the need to check. The receipt of DLA is the most recent change in respect of the OPs entitlement. It's whether or not this is the trigger.
Personally I don't think it will be related to the DLA. I was just thinking of every possible scenario.
If the OP comes back and wants to provide further information thats not too personal people will be happy to help and advise the best they can.
I do hope no.one has reported you for fraud OP..

LakieLady · 31/07/2025 16:31

MickGeorge22 · 31/07/2025 09:22

Sorry just re-read your post and seen it is to do with your UC claim. it could be to do with the DLA money going into your bank account or if savings have gone over 6k but to be honest i can't see why they wouldn't just query that with you it wouldn't necessarily go to the compliance team?

Edited
Show quote history

Arrears of benefits are disregarded for a year from the date of payment under capital rules.

LakieLady · 31/07/2025 16:29

Yellowpingu · 31/07/2025 08:33

With your son being awarded DLA recently I’d say it’s most likely connected to that and ensuring that you’re getting all the components you’re entitled to. Please don’t worry.

This. If your child's DLA includes middle or higher rate care, you'll now be entitled to have the carer's element (£160+) added to your UC, and the disabled child element (around £150).

XenoBitch · 31/07/2025 16:15

It usually says on those letters what it is about (housing costs etc), so to leave you in the dark that... it is no wonder you are panicking.

Yellowpingu · 31/07/2025 16:13

@Thequeenofwishfulthinking they certainly used to. I know because I did that job for 10 years.

Morgenrot25 · 31/07/2025 15:55

TigerRag · 31/07/2025 15:34

That would be a work capability assessment and not compliance interview. And the OP would have received a form to fill in

Show quote history

My reply stands.

TigerRag · 31/07/2025 15:34

Morgenrot25 · 31/07/2025 08:34

How many 'years ago' were you awarded your benefit? It's possible that it's just automatically time for them to review it. While I am not suggesting your social anxiety isn't genuine, it's not unreasonable for them to 'make sure', and also to perhaps encourage you to attempt to do something about it. I doubt they would just award a lifelong claim for social anxiety, so it was inevitable this would happen at some point. Is there a friend or family member who can help you through this? You have to eat, and you have to try to stop crying - for your kid's sake if nothing else - that might sound harsh, but you are a parent and sometimes knowing that gives us the strength to fight our corner! Good luck.

Edited

That would be a work capability assessment and not compliance interview. And the OP would have received a form to fill in

MickGeorge22 · 31/07/2025 15:30

Thequeenofwishfulthinking · 31/07/2025 15:24

Are you claiming carers allowance for your son who gets DLA? Depending what you qualified for LCWRA for, in certain circumstances you can't care for another given what is wrong with you.
I don't think it's possible to claim carers and PIP together.

You won't be able to claim LCWRA forever. At some point you will be reviewed.
Check everything you are getting and any paperwork/journal for any information thats relevant
Do you go on your journal regularly?
Have they amended your commitments and you haven't accepted them in time?
Someone may have reported you for fraud.
Is it possible you have exaggerated things
in the past re LCWRA and PIP?

Social anxiety was the new 'back pain' of the DWP. There are thousands of claimants on LCWRA and PIP who will not qualify again upon review. Im not suggesting this is you just making you aware of this. The new LCW and LCWRA threshold/s is/are based upon a points scheme and generalised social anxiety will not cut it. As a pp asked have you been seen out and about whilst previously stating you are unable to go out? You don't need to answer my questions but have a good think about what's been prevuously said to the DWP and if this still applies. People are meant to submit a change of circumstances if their health improves. You need to be prepared for these sorts of questions.
A compliance interview is definitely not a standard UC telephone call. They have concerns of some kind.

@Yellowpingu the DWP definitely dont ring or arrange appointments to check you are getting what your entitled to. To be blunt 'they don't give a f**k

@Fromage she will not have a work coach as she does not have to look for work or work as she receives Limited capacity to work and work related activity.

It is perfectly possible to claim carers allowance and PIP together. No one ever checks up on what caring is being done- ever ! It is not possible for a person on a single UC claim to claim both LCWRA and carers element.

Thequeenofwishfulthinking · 31/07/2025 15:24

Are you claiming carers allowance for your son who gets DLA? Depending what you qualified for LCWRA for, in certain circumstances you can't care for another given what is wrong with you.
I don't think it's possible to claim carers and PIP together.

You won't be able to claim LCWRA forever. At some point you will be reviewed.
Check everything you are getting and any paperwork/journal for any information thats relevant
Do you go on your journal regularly?
Have they amended your commitments and you haven't accepted them in time?
Someone may have reported you for fraud.
Is it possible you have exaggerated things
in the past re LCWRA and PIP?

Social anxiety was the new 'back pain' of the DWP. There are thousands of claimants on LCWRA and PIP who will not qualify again upon review. Im not suggesting this is you just making you aware of this. The new LCW and LCWRA threshold/s is/are based upon a points scheme and generalised social anxiety will not cut it. As a pp asked have you been seen out and about whilst previously stating you are unable to go out? You don't need to answer my questions but have a good think about what's been prevuously said to the DWP and if this still applies. People are meant to submit a change of circumstances if their health improves. You need to be prepared for these sorts of questions.
A compliance interview is definitely not a standard UC telephone call. They have concerns of some kind.

@Yellowpingu the DWP definitely dont ring or arrange appointments to check you are getting what your entitled to. To be blunt 'they don't give a f**k

@Fromage she will not have a work coach as she does not have to look for work or work as she receives Limited capacity to work and work related activity.

Julen7 · 31/07/2025 14:25

Fromage · 31/07/2025 09:10

Theybreally need to reword this shit, it does make me cross. Who wouldn't be panicking.

They are doing a check up. Do you have a work coach or similar? Someone who can talk you down, explain, help yyou out?

Can you have someone also on the line for the interview? Anything that will help.

I am assuming they've not sent you any forms to fill in, so this is just a checking in, because they realise they've forgotten to check up on you sooner. Not your fault, and that you've been thrown into a panic is something you should raise with them. Just factually, don't get cross with them.

Write down notes, questions - because you can also ask how often you can expect a review - any other information, queries etc. You can tell them if anything has changed for the worse in your situation.

You can also say that the date clashes with an existing commitment (you don't have to be specific) and request the interview be postponed.

But for now, breathe, do whatever you need to calm down, have a cup of tea and a biscuit, and contact your UC person/job coach.

Then plan anything you can that's nice for today. Flop in front of the tv, go feed some ducks, tell yourself you have done all you can today about that horribly worded letter.

Compliance is not just “checking in”

Lightsug · 31/07/2025 10:58

Fromage · 31/07/2025 09:10

Theybreally need to reword this shit, it does make me cross. Who wouldn't be panicking.

They are doing a check up. Do you have a work coach or similar? Someone who can talk you down, explain, help yyou out?

Can you have someone also on the line for the interview? Anything that will help.

I am assuming they've not sent you any forms to fill in, so this is just a checking in, because they realise they've forgotten to check up on you sooner. Not your fault, and that you've been thrown into a panic is something you should raise with them. Just factually, don't get cross with them.

Write down notes, questions - because you can also ask how often you can expect a review - any other information, queries etc. You can tell them if anything has changed for the worse in your situation.

You can also say that the date clashes with an existing commitment (you don't have to be specific) and request the interview be postponed.

But for now, breathe, do whatever you need to calm down, have a cup of tea and a biscuit, and contact your UC person/job coach.

Then plan anything you can that's nice for today. Flop in front of the tv, go feed some ducks, tell yourself you have done all you can today about that horribly worded letter.

There is nothing wrong with the wording of the letter. It's really clear and simple.