
Experts gives DWP proposals on welfare reforms
The government has seen its proposed package of welfare reforms whittled away by amendments to quell an outcry from MPs and campaigners over payment cuts
Experts have given the government a set of proposals for boosting employment and reducing levels of economic inactivity
(Image: peplow via Getty Images )
Labour has been called upon to re-examine the welfare system as a range of innovative employment-centric initiatives have been suggested. These proposals include an idea for disability benefit applicants to participate in an employability and independence workshop prior to their claims being accepted.
The government's package of reforms has been significantly diluted through amendments, following a backlash from MPs and advocates concerned about the impact of reduced payments. Nevertheless, pundits contend that alternative strategies need to be considered by the Government to decrease economic inactivity and reintegrate more individuals into employment, reports Birmingham Live.
Deven Ghelani, director of Policy in Practice, a firm focusing on social policy software and analytics, has put forth recommendations urging "fundamental reforms that make the system work better for ill and disabled people."
Ghelani expresses reservations about the Government's adjustments designed to safeguard current benefit recipients while imposing cuts on prospective claimants with similar health issues. For money-saving tips, sign up to our Money newsletter here
As per Labour's forthcoming legislation, Universal Credit's additional amount for illness will remain unchanged for existing beneficiaries but will be slashed and frozen for new claimants post-next April.
There was also a plan to exclude current Personal Independence Payment (PIP) recipients from more stringent upcoming criteria, yet all suggested changes related to PIP have now been scrapped from the bill, with a comprehensive review announced before any new actions are proposed.
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Mr Ghelani has suggested several alternative strategies. He proposes that the DWP should incorporate new 'better-off-in-work assessments' into the claims system for long-term unemployed individuals, to clearly illustrate the financial benefits of employment.
Furthermore, he suggests using DWP data on those claiming PIP and the Universal Credit sickness top-up to send text invitations for employment support and social activities.
He also recommends that anyone applying for disability benefits should be required to attend an employability and/or independence workshop before they start receiving payments.
According to Mr Ghelani, the waiting period before cash support is approved could save money to fund these workshops.
Additionally, he urges the Government to simplify access to healthcare services like physiotherapy, and to provide the necessary disability aids and adaptations to keep people active.
Lastly, he suggests that employers should strive to maintain and enhance the job market through effective management of their existing staff, providing application feedback to all candidates, and offering more work placements to students.
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Schools should also play a larger role in inviting employers and successful former pupils to share their experiences in the working world, he added.
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