DWP assessment changes are coming for people on disability benefits

DWP rules for disability benefit assessment could change as Rachel Reeves’ Budget approaches.

New Department for Work and Pensions assessment rules are coming for people on disability benefits under the new Labour Party government. The DWPDWP rules for disability benefit assessment could change as Rachel Reeves’ Budget approaches.

Changes could take effect from next April as Treasury reportedly looks to save £3bn. The previous Conservative Party government announced in 2023 that the Work Capability Assessment (WCA) would be reformed, with the qualifying criteria changed.

Now, Labour has recommitted to the plans in its election manifesto, saying the WCA is “not working” and needs to be “reformed or replaced”. Tory plans included removing the “Mobilising” activity used to assess limited capability for work and work-related activity (LCWRA), realigning the LCWRA Substantial Risk rules with the original policy intent of only applying in exceptional circumstances and reducing points for some of the descriptors under the Getting About activity used to assess limited capability for work (LCW)

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David Southgate, policy manager at disability equality charity Scope, said: “Disabled people still don’t know what is going to happen to the Work Capability Assessment. This is leaving thousands feeling anxious and confused. The government needs to scrap its predecessor’s plans and put forward its own positive case for change.

“Change is desperately needed, as the Work Capability Assessment is degrading, stressful and built on mistrust. The government needs to work with disabled people to fix our broken welfare system, rather than making it more punitive.”

A DWP spokesperson said: “Spiralling inactivity and millions of people denied the right support is holding the country back and stifling the economy. We believe the Work Capability Assessment is not working and needs to be reformed or replaced, alongside a proper plan to support disabled people.

“We will deliver the change the country needs; supporting those who can work, into work, and delivering growth in every part of the country.”