Claimants who fail to attend a telephone work capability assessment will be ‘given the opportunity’ to explain their reasons

Work and Pensions Minister adds that, if good cause is provided and accepted, then support will continue

Claimants who fail to attend a telephone work capability assessment will be 'given the opportunity' to explain their reasons, the Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work Justin Tomlinson has confirmed.

Responding to a written question in the House of Commons yesterday - about what easements are in place for claimants who fail to attend or participate in a telephone assessment for universal credit or employment and support allowance during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic - Mr Tomlinson said - 

'We will contact anyone who has not engaged in a telephone work capability assessment arranged since 2 November 2020 to establish if they have a good reason for not attending or participating. Claimants will be given the opportunity to explain why they did not, or could not attend or participate in the telephone assessment and where good cause is provided and accepted, support will continue.'

Mr Tomlinson's written answer is available from parliament.gov.uk