Chloe on Work Capability Assessment Statistics

Chloe Smith, MP for Norwich North, today commented on new official statistics released by the Department of Work and Pensions which show that over a third of people who undertake the new Work Capability Assessment (WCA) as part of their claim for Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) are found to be fit for work.

For new ESA claims assessed between October 2008 to February 2010, the breakdown of results was as follows:

• Claimant is Fit for Work - 39%
• Claimant joins the Support Group (for those who cannot work now or in the foreseeable future and need unconditional support) - 6%
• Claimant joins the Work Related Activity Group (for those who cannot work now but with the right help could work in the foreseeable future) - 15%
• Claim closed before assessment complete or assessment still in process- 39%

Commenting on the statistics, Chloe Smith said:

"These statistics are extremely useful in showing the importance of the Work Capability Assessment as part of the benefit claims process. People do want the system to be fair, and I think assessing people's capability is an acceptable way to ensure we do the right thing.

"Over two million people are currently receiving Incapacity Benefit and over the last ten years a staggering £133 billion has been spent on it. This really can't continue, either economically or morally. People want to work, and those who can, should be helped to do so. At the same time, it is obviously essential that those who cannot work receive proper help and financial support."