All the coming DWP and benefits changes you need to know about
| Published date | 25 April 2024 |
| Publication title | WalesOnline (Wales) |
The Prime Minister announced plans for a significant overhaul of the Personal Independence Payment PIP system. An upcoming consultation will explore potential changes to the eligibility criteria, assessment process, and the range of support available through the disability benefit.
The reform of PIP would only apply in England and Wales, as 218,859 in Scotland currently receiving PIP will shift to Adult Disability Payment ADP by year end of 2025.
These are the changes you need to know about.
Removing benefits from 'long term unemployed' who 'refuse' jobs
The UK Government is set to remove benefits from long-term unemployed individuals who refuse job offers. With over 450,000 people jobless for six months or more and over 250,000 unemployed for a year, the government insists there's no reason these individuals shouldn't be in work given the current availability of over 900,000 job vacancies.
In the upcoming parliament, new legislation will be proposed to change the rules. This means anyone who has been on benefits for a year and fails to meet the conditions set by their Work Coach -including accepting available work -will have their unemployment claim terminated and their benefits completely withdrawn.
Work Capability Assessments
The Prime Minister has also confirmed plans to tighten the Work Capability Assessment so that those with less severe conditions are expected to engage with the employment sector and receive support to do so.
He highlighted that under the existing Work Capability Assessment, too many individuals are effectively dismissed as unfit for work without being offered the chance to access crucial support that could help them find a job.
He further clarified that the UK Government is committed to abolishing the Work Capability Assessment WCA entirely and introducing a new personalised approach to employment support. The aim is to assist disabled individuals and those with health conditions to reach their full potential.
The government is set to overhaul the welfare system, with reforms expected to result in 424,000 fewer people being classified as not needing to work by 2028/29.
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