Afghan Case Study: Supporting Hashmat

Case study - Afghan Resettlement

“Without USPUK, I would not have been able to get through this. They stood by me from start to finish, and without their help, I would have had no chance to fight for my rights.”

At USPUK, we strive to support the resettlement process for Afghans by providing clear, accurate information to individuals facing challenges.

Case Study: Supporting Hashmat Through the Work Capability Assessment and Tribunal Process

Background
In early 2024, Hashmat, a single man residing in the UK, faced multiple challenges impacting his well-being. He was suffering from ongoing physical health issues, particularly chronic back pain affecting his mobility, while simultaneously experiencing financial hardship. As a person responsible for supporting family members in Afghanistan, Hashmat was attempting to survive on a limited income of approximately £250 per month from Universal Credit.

Despite submitting a long-term fit note outlining his health limitations, the Job Centre continued to apply the benefit cap to his Universal Credit payments. Instead of lifting the cap or considering his health condition, Hashmat was issued a Work Capability Assessment (WCA) form and instructed to complete and return it promptly.

USPUK’s Intervention

Recognising the complexity of the WCA process and struggling with limited English proficiency, Hashmat reached out to USPUK for support. Our team provided comprehensive assistance by:

• Helping him complete the WCA form from start to finish

• Preparing him for the telephone-based health assessment

• Supporting follow-up requests, including additional medical documentation

Despite these efforts, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) rejected Hashmat's WCA, determining that he was fit to work.

Challenging the Decision

Undeterred, USPUK assisted Hashmat in filing a Mandatory Reconsideration. Unfortunately, the DWP upheld their original decision. With no other viable options and Hashmat’s health continuing to deteriorate, USPUK supported him in escalating the matter to a Tribunal Appeal.

While awaiting the tribunal, Hashmat attempted to do some food delivery work to survive financially. However, due to worsening back pain, he was forced to quit after only three months.

Tribunal Success

Finally, in March 2025, the tribunal hearing was held. After reviewing Hashmat’s case and consulting with his GP, the Tribunal ruled in Hashmat’s favour. He was notified that he would receive formal written confirmation within 6–8 weeks, including details of any backdated payments.

Impact and Reflection

With the support of USPUK, Hashmat was able to navigate an overwhelmingly complex and bureaucratic system. He now lives with his family and is awaiting the tribunal’s final written decision and payment adjustment. Hashmat expressed deep gratitude for USPUK’s continuous support, stating:

“Without USPUK, I would not have been able to get through this. They stood by me from start to finish, and without their help, I would have had no chance to fight for my rights.”

Information Packs from USPUK

At USPUK, we provide detailed info packs on various topics for displaced people. We assist those coming to the UK through programs like ACRS and ARAP.

If you would like to get involved or if you would like to access our Information Packs, you can find out more on our website in the Get Help section.