DWP WCA reassessment guidance and training materials

Hi,

We’ve published the DWP’s guidance etc. on its WCA reassessment policy that began on 29 September -

https://www.disabilityrightsuk.org/news/2017/october/guidance-work-capability-assessment-reassessment-published

And some comments on the new criteria -

https://www.disabilityrightsuk.org/news/2017/october/dr-uks-statement-new-dwp-reassessment-guidance

Cheers Ken, very interesting reading!

Good to see a hardening of stance from DRUK. Generous of DWP to create a system which will expand the need to appeal and completely block up the MR system.

Mike Hughes - 09 October 2017 04:46 PM

Good to see a hardening of stance from DRUK. Generous of DWP to create a system which will expand the need to appeal and completely block up the MR system.

I’m probably missing it, but not sure where is the scope for more appeals?

(DWP say that whether to allow an indefinite award is not an appealable decision.)

So if you are in the support group via reg 35 you can’t qualify for no reassessments? That limits it a lot - particularly I would guess for people with severe mental health conditions?

Daphne - 10 October 2017 09:52 AM

So if you are in the support group via reg 35 you can’t qualify for no reassessments? That limits it a lot - particularly I would guess for people with severe mental health conditions?

My thoughts exactly. The vast majority of my ESA cases go on reg35.

edit; 50% of cases of schizophrenia are lifelong; there is always a reg35 risk.

And are exactly one of the groups of people whose health is put at risk by unnecessary reassessments

I feel that the ‘examples of conditions that might not meet the criteria’ given by DWP will allow a coach and four to be driven through this piece of policy by some DMs:

‘recovery of function may be present for substantial periods’ [define your terms????]

‘conditions which might resolve’ - [ eh???]

‘Whilst condition is lifelong function might improve’ [to what extent?]

And I heartily endorse DRUK’s concern that the DM will seek advice from an HCP, not the GP/consultant/specialist who knows the claimant. I also note that if further evidence is needed, DWP will approach the claimant or representative, not the doctor/consultant/specialist.

Note to DWP - ‘criteria’ is the plural of ‘criterion’. Amend your guidance, it is cringe-making (‘What is the ESA Severe Conditions Criteria?’)