Representatives from organisations providing advice and support to people applying for health-related benefits will face questions from MPs as part of the Work and Pensions Committee’s inquiry into health assessments for benefits.
The inquiry is investigating the assessment processes for health-related benefits, including Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Attendance Allowance and Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit. It is focusing on how the DWP can improve the application and assessment processes.
The Committee has previously heard that the application and assessment processes for such benefits are often flawed, with a majority of people who appeal against decisions made by the DWP being successful. The DWP has announced its intention to reform the assessment processes for PIP and ESA through the Health Transformation Programme.
The latest session will explore the role of medical professionals and third-party evidence in the assessment process, ideas for different assessment methods and the types of advocacy and guidance that is available to those looking to claim health-related benefits. There will also be questions on the appeals process, including the significant proportion of DWP decisions that are overturned at Tribunals and how the assessment process can be improved to reduce the number of claims being appealed.