§ Mr. GorrieTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans he has to reduce the barriers posed by the benefit rules to people who wish to volunteer for community projects. [132246]
§ Angela EaglePeople who are in receipt of Social Security benefits may undertake unlimited amounts of voluntary activity including participation in community projects without its affecting their benefit providing other eligibility conditions continue to be met. Any expenses they incur in connection with their voluntary work may also be reimbursed in full without it affecting their benefits.
We are aware of the concerns expressed in the Policy Action Team report on Community Self Help and the Performance and Innovation Unit's report on Active Ageing (Winning the Generation Game) that, nevertheless, barriers to volunteering still exist and we are considering the issues raised.