Government responds to inquiry on benefits assessment process

In April 2018 the Government responded to findings from the Work and Pensions select committee following an inquiry into the assessment process for two benefits: Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).Sarah Newton, the Minister for Disabled People, began by thanking the almost 3,500 individuals who shared their personal experiences with the committee. Thank you to over 1,500 people with arthritis who provided the committee with evidence on how the benefits assessment process can affect people with arthritis.We’ve put together a short summary of how the Government answered key points raised by the committee, but if you want to see the full response take a look at theParliament UK website.What the Government has said:Before the assessmentThe Government acknowledged the importance of claimants being able to access a range of products in accessible formats, which provide a clear explanation of how to complete claim forms. They also agreed that they should make it easier for claimants to understand what evidence is needed when they are being reassessed.It is now testing products in accessible formats, including providing easy read versions of notes which accompany application forms.It is committed to working with stakeholders to better understand what would be helpful to the person making the claim. They will also launch a series of videos to help people prepare for the assessment process.It will commission an external agency to look a...
Source: Arthritis Research UK - Category: Rheumatology Source Type: news