In a bold move that sets the tone for the government's welfare agenda, Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride has announced radical reforms to the benefits system that could see hundreds of thousands of claimants moved off support.
Conference Bombshell
Addressing the Conservative Party Conference in Manchester, Stride declared the current system "not sustainable" and unveiled plans to significantly tighten the Work Capability Assessment (WCA). The reforms specifically target those deemed to have some capacity for employment despite health conditions.
Who Will Be Affected?
The government estimates approximately 400,000 people currently claiming disability benefits could be reassessed under the new criteria. Those affected include claimants with:
- Mobility issues but capable of remote work
- Mental health conditions manageable with workplace adjustments
- Various health problems that don't prevent all forms of employment
The Financial Stakes
With the welfare bill reaching £26 billion annually for incapacity benefits alone, Stride argued that reform is economically essential. "The system must reflect modern working practices," he told conference delegates, emphasising the growth of remote and flexible employment opportunities.
Political Reaction
The announcement has drawn immediate criticism from disability rights organisations and opposition parties. Charities warn that the changes could push vulnerable individuals into poverty, while Labour describes the measures as "punitive rather than supportive."
However, Conservative MPs have largely welcomed the proposals, seeing them as a crucial step toward reducing the welfare burden and encouraging workforce participation.
What Happens Next?
The Department for Work and Pensions will begin consulting on the new assessment criteria immediately, with implementation expected within the next parliamentary session. The reforms represent one of the most significant welfare shake-ups since the introduction of Universal Credit.
