Thank you for contacting me about disability benefit assessments and EDM 19.
I firmly believe that the benefits system should support the people who need it most. The health and disability green paper and subsequent consultation considered how to improve the Department for Work and Pensions' (DWP) current services so they are better and easier to use, how extra support can help people navigate the system, and what more can be done to better support disabled people into employment. I understand that a White Paper is expected later this year. I will follow developments closely.
I am encouraged that one of the DWP's aims is to improve the assessment process for financial support. This will ensure it is as simple as possible and people can clearly understand the reason for and approach to an assessment, what evidence to provide and the outcome received.
The DWP are also committed to building transparency and consistency in the delivery of assessments and in their outcomes. A more personalised service would stop people having to repeatedly provide information or attend unnecessary repeat assessments.
Ministerial colleagues are determined to deliver reforms that are developed through close collaboration with disabled people and I look forward to the Government's response and detailed proposals in due course.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
Craig Whittaker MP
June 2022