News

Lib Dem DWP Committee calls for further exemptions to under occupancy penalty

The Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Party Committee for Work and Pensions has called on the Government to introduce further exemptions for groups of society from the under occupancy penalty, as well bringing forward a full and proper review of the policy once it is implemented. Current exemptions are those of pensionable age; those in local housing shared ownership; those in temporary housing; the recently bereaved, who have protection for 52 weeks; and those who are provided with overnight care by an unpaid carer.

Concern raised over Employment Support Allowance by Mencap

A charity has said it is shocked by the government's decision to change benefits for severely disabled children. Mencap said it will mean more reassessments and confusion among families. At present, such children are entitled to Employment Support Allowance. It pays £56 per week for three years once they reach their 16th birthday. Under the cuts they will only receive it for a year. What happens after that remains unclear.

Campaigners launch legal bid to save Independent Living Fund

The High Court is to begin hearing a challenge to government plans to scrap a £320m scheme that helps people with severe disabilities live independently. The six disabled people bringing the judicial review will question the legality of the move to close the Independent Living Fund from 2015.

Government seeks views on good practice in learning disability services

Care Services Minister Norman Lamb has called for evidence on good practice to improve the quality of services for people with learning disabilities and their families.

The Real Scroungers

Fit note support for GPs pledged by DWP

GPs are to get more help writing 'fit notes' for patients on long-term sick leave, the government has said. Dr Rob Hampton: four-week referral to assessment service welcome