Activity 5: Manual dexterity

Activity 5 is defined in regulations as - 

Manual dexterity.

Activity 5 assesses hand and wrist function  in relation to the ability to press a button or turn pages in a book with either hand.

Descriptor

The descriptor relating to Activity 5 is -

Cannot press a button (such as a telephone keypad) with either hand or cannot turn the pages of a book with either hand.

Sources:

• Schedule 3 to the Employment and Support Allowance Regulations 2008 (SI.No.794/2008) and Schedule 3 to SR.No.280/2008 in Northern Ireland (apply to income-related and old-style contributory ESA).
• Schedule 3 to the Employment and Support Allowance Regulations 2013 (SI.No.379/2013) and Schedule 3 to SR.No.219/2016 in Northern Ireland (apply to new-style contributory ESA).
• Schedule 7 to the Universal Credit Regulations 2013 (SI.No.376/2013) and Schedule 7 to SR.No.216/2016 in Northern Ireland (apply to universal credit).

See also section 2.3.1.5 of the DWP’s Work Capability Assessment handbook: for healthcare professionals.

Case law

The Upper Tribunal is yet to publish any significant case law in relation to Activity 5.