Social Security Case Law - Winter 2024

Headnote

A ‘Men’s Shed’ can be considered a therapeutic setting and a Tribunal must be cautious when extrapolating attendance there as evidence of social engagement.

Case Overview

In this case, the Commissioner noted the specific findings of the Tribunal that attending a ‘Men’s Shed’ was evidence of a client’s ability to interact with others on a social level. Although a ‘Men’s Shed’ allows for social interaction for members who seek it, it can also offer lone working for those who have severe anxiety and a Tribunal should be cautious not to assume a claimant is interacting. The Commissioner also noted that ‘seeking advice’ is not evidence by itself that a claimant has a particular illness or disability.