The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has provided a significant update on the status of health assessments for thousands of people claiming benefits, revealing the scale of the current waiting list.
The Scale of the Waiting List
Responding to a written parliamentary question from SNP MP Chris Law, DWP minister Stephen Timms shared figures showing the number of claimants awaiting a Work Capability Assessment (WCA). As of October 31, 2025, approximately 74,000 new benefit claimants and 40,000 existing claimants were in the queue for an assessment with the provider Maximus.
Mr Timms clarified that these totals encompass all individuals claiming Universal Credit, Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), and Incapacity Benefit who are waiting for their assessment. The figures include claimants at various stages of the process, such as those completing initial questionnaires and those for whom further medical evidence is being gathered.
How Often Are Assessments Cancelled?
Chris Law’s question specifically sought details on how many scheduled assessments had been cancelled. In his response, the minister sought to reassure claimants, stating that appointments not going ahead on the planned day is a rare occurrence.
“Very few people who are booked in for an assessment are not seen on the appointed day,” Stephen Timms explained. He acknowledged that unforeseen circumstances can arise, such as a claimant’s file not being received, the unavailability of a health professional due to illness, or significant waiting times on the day itself.
The DWP released specific data covering the period from September 9, 2024, to October 31, 2025. During this time:
- 640 new claimants and 250 existing claimants had a single appointment cancelled.
- 60 new claimants and 20 existing claimants experienced two cancellations.
- Fewer than five existing claimants and 10 new claimants had an appointment cancelled more than twice.
What Happens If Your Appointment Is Cancelled?
The minister outlined the protocol Maximus must follow if an assessment is at risk of being cancelled or delayed. Maximus is required to make every possible effort to ensure the appointment proceeds before a cancellation is confirmed.
“If it is anticipated that a claimant cannot be seen on the day of their appointment, or the assessment is delayed, Maximus is required to make every effort to contact the claimant by telephone to apologise and explain the action that will be taken to rearrange the appointment,” Mr Timms stated.
This process is designed to provide immediate communication and minimise further uncertainty for individuals whose benefits depend on the outcome of these crucial health assessments. The Work Capability Assessment is used to determine the extent to which a person’s health condition or disability affects their ability to work, which in turn dictates the level of financial support they receive.
The DWP’s update provides transparency on the current backlog and the relatively low incidence of cancellations, while also clarifying the steps taken to support claimants when appointments are disrupted.
