Government to review disability benefits

Government to review disability benefits system under new “moral mission”.

The Government has announced upcoming changes to welfare and disability benefits.

These new reforms are aimed at ensuring that Government welfare and benefit systems are supporting those who need it most, while simultaneously addressing concerns over what is being described as “sick note culture”.

There are a number of upcoming actions outlined by the Government:

Removal of benefits from long-term unemployed who won’t accept a job
It has been proposed that, where individuals fail to comply with the conditions and requirements set out by their Work Coach in looking for new work, their claims will be closed after 12 months.

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) consultation
A consultation on PIP has been carried out, looking at the eligibility criteria and assessment processes currently used and the types of support available. The consultation is due to be published soon.

Improved assessment of the potential to work
There are suggestions that the Work Capability Assessment (WCA) will be replaced with a more tailored approach for individuals. The current fit note system will be reviewed to focus on what can be done with the adequate support, as opposed to what is not possible.

Crack down on fraud
A new fraud bill will be introduced in the next parliament to address cases where individuals may be taking advantage of the system. It will give powers to carry out warrants for searches, seizures and arrests, and work on more consistent civil penalties.

Updates to welfare and work
Other objectives include speeding up the rollout of Universal Credit, increasing the Administrative Earnings Threshold (AET) and adding a requirement for those working less than half of a full-time week needing to look for more work.

It is worth noting that concerns have been raised about these new reforms further complicating the process for those who need support, and whether there could have been more positive ways to support people to remain in work via early intervention.