Work and Pensions written question – answered at on 31 January 2011.
To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what the evidential basis is for his proposal that 12 months should be the maximum period for claimants in the work-related activity group to receive contributory employment and support allowance.
We are introducing a time limit of 12 months for entitlement to contributory employment and support allowance for claimants in the Work Related Activity Group. The period of 12 months was chosen because it strikes the best balance between allowing people with longer-term conditions to adjust to their health condition and providing a level of access that is appropriate for contributory benefits. Around 60% of all those claiming ESA already come off this benefit within a year(1). We will be putting in place significant additional employment support through the Work programme.
ESA has always been intended to be a temporary benefit for those in the Work Related Activity Group. It is important that we rebalance the benefit system so that it is fair to recipients as well as being affordable to the taxpayer.
Those in the Support Group, who have the most severe health conditions or disabilities, are not affected by this measure. Customers in the Work Related Activity Group whose entitlement to contributory ESA ends after 12 months will be able to claim income-related ESA if they are eligible.
(1) Source:
Department for Work and Pensions Tabulation Tool.
Yes0 people think so
No1 person thinks not
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