Bungling Universal Credit staff ask gran, 65, who’s had two hip ops to interview for the ARMY

A 65-YEAR-OLD gran who's had two hip operations has told how bungling Universal Credit staff asked her to attend a job interview for the Army.

Lindsey Thorpe said: “You just can't make this up."

"I couldn't believe it when the offer came through. I mean I’m not actually fit for the battlefield.

“I’ve got a walking stick and have had two hip ops plus a knee op. I don’t think my surgeon would be pleased.”

Lindsey, of Hyde, Greater Manchester, added: “I realise it’s just a mistake or automated thing but it just shows what a joke they are.”

Another Twitter user had a similar Department for Work and Pensions request.

David said: “I was sanctioned for refusing an interview as a trainee lifeguard. I was 65 with chronic arthritis and heart disease.

“I can't swim and have a fear of water after witnessing, as a child, 2 friends drown. Apparently I declined to apply for acceptable employment.”

A  DWP spokesman said: "We issued a general update making claimants aware of a virtual Armed Forces Careers fair, clearly marked ‘only reply if interested’.

"It is deeply disappointing this has been misrepresented in this way. 

"Notifying claimants of available opportunities is a vital part of what we do to help people find work."

Universal Credit was introduced by the government in 2013 to try to simplify the benefits system.