30-07-10 09:49

Fit note changes exposes thousands fit for work

People being assessed for their ability to work are overwhelmingly being found fit and able to look for a job, according to new figures.

The latest statistics for Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) applications show that three-quarters of applicants are being found fit for work or are stopping their claim before their assessment period has been completed. 

Minister for Employment, Chris Grayling said: "The vast majority of people who are applying for these benefits are being found fit for work or have stopped their claim. These are people who under the old system would have been abandoned on incapacity benefits. It's a clear indication of why reform is so urgently needed. 

"This is exactly why we are going to reassess everyone claiming incapacity benefits for their ability to work, from this October. They will now be given the support they need to get back to work and will be expected to look for work if they are able to do so." 

People making a claim for Employment and Support Allowance undergo a Work Capability Assessment (WCA). To ensure that the assessment is fair and accurate an independent review is to be undertaken by Professor Malcolm Harrington. 

The review will be launching a call for evidence from today [Thursday 29^th] aimed at gathering information on the WCA from a wide range of organisations and individuals. 

The call for evidence can be found on the DWP website, http://www.dwp.gov.uk/consultations/