Committee of MPs launch new inquiry into benefits

On the 29th September, the Work and Pensions Committee, an influential group of MPs, launched a new inquiry where they will investigate how the application, assessment and appeals processes are working for two benefits: Employment Support Allowance (ESA) and Personal Independence Payments (PIP).If you’re ill or disabled, ESA offers you financial support if you can’t work, alongside help to get you back into work if you’re able to. PIP provides financial support to help with some of the extra costs caused by living with a long-term condition or disability. The amount you get depends on how your condition affects you, not the condition itself.Our campaigns team regularly hear from people with musculoskeletal conditions who have experienced challenging assessments and reassessments for these benefits. This process can have a huge impact on people’s physical and mental health.What’s already happened?In March 2017 the Work and Pensions Committee held anurgent one-off evidence session in response to the Government’s plans to restrict the number of people who qualify for PIP.Concerning evidence was given about information recorded during assessments, and some people feeling their assessor didn’t understand their health condition.Arthritis Research UK Campaigns Manager, Morgan Vine said“Many people with arthritis have told us that they experience problems when trying to access ESA or PIP. The latest data shows that, across all assessmen...
Source: Arthritis Research UK - Category: Rheumatology Source Type: news