The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that all disability and sickness benefit claimants will have their assessments audio recorded as standard unless they opt out, in a change aimed at addressing a lack of trust in the process.
Change to assessment recordings
From the end of June, all face-to-face and telephone health assessments for such benefits will be audio recorded as standard, in a bid to improve transparency. This applies to people being assessed for Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Work Capability Assessments (WCA) in Universal Credit and Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), and Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB).
Previously, claimants had to opt in to having their assessments recorded, a process used by fewer than 3 per cent of people, the department said. While written reports will still be used in the decision-making process, audio recordings will give a more accurate record if needed. People who do not want their assessment recorded can opt out.
Minister's comments
Disability and social security minister Sir Stephen Timms said: “Improving transparency and trust in the benefits system is one of this Government’s key aims, which is why we’re making this important change. Audio recording health assessments as standard will mean we are available to make improvements and increase assessment quality, resulting in a better experience for claimants.”
Sir Stephen is leading the Timms Review, which is gathering views on PIP and how it works. The DWP has said that any changes to the benefit, which supports over four million people across England and Wales, will not be implemented until after the review has concluded this autumn. The review aims to ensure PIP is “fit and fair for the future”.
Interim report findings
An interim report published last month gathered evidence from more than 38,000 people and organisations across the UK and found the assessment process is creating barriers for many disabled people, particularly those with fluctuating conditions, less visible disabilities and multiple health conditions.
Sir Stephen said: “This interim report delivers a clear message: while PIP is widely valued as a benefit, it is not working as intended and needs fundamental change.” He added: “Our work so far has been informed by a wide range of evidence, expertise and insight to ensure we hear from as many disabled people as possible across the country, including through workshops, engagement and a call for evidence which attracted more than 38,000 responses.”
Harriet Edwards, Director of Influencing at the charity Sense, welcomed the findings and said: “Too many disabled people are being failed by the current benefits system, and we welcome the Timms Review's acknowledgment of this.” She added: “As the Timms Review moves into its next phase, we urge the review team to ensure its recommendations are driven by the goal of improving disabled people's lives, not reducing public spending. Changes to welfare must remove barriers, strengthen support and build a system that treats disabled people with dignity, respect and trust.”
