Activity 3: Reaching

Activity 3 is defined in regulations as - 

Reaching.

Activity 3 relates to elbow function and/or shoulder function in both arms. It assesses the ability to raise the upper limbs to chest height, having regard to power, co-ordination and joint mobility in the upper limbs.

Descriptor

The descriptor relating to Activity 3 is -

Cannot raise either arm as if to put something in the top pocket of a coat or jacket.

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 2.3.1.3 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 3.