The benefits system – a short guide for GPs

First update to this publication since 2013, covers all benefits where GP input may be needed (including UC) - includes reference to how claimant consent given on a claim form remains valid indefinitely - if Atos, Capita etc need information from a GP…

‘A healthcare professional from the Centre for Health and Disability Assessments (CHDA) may phone you for more information. Patients give consent for this to happen as part of their claim and you do not need to seek additional consent. General Medical Council confidentiality guidance (paragraph 115c) states ‘you may accept an assurance from an officer of a government department or agency or a registered health professional acting on their behalf that the patient or a person properly authorised to act on their behalf has consented’

UC could perhaps learn something from this approach to ongoing consent.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/a-short-guide-to-the-benefit-system-for-general-practitioners