Disabled people can work without fear of losing benefits

Disabled people who claim benefits are to be given the right to try work without having to worry about losing the support they’re getting.

According to the Department for Work and Pensions, more than one in three disabled people and those with health conditions (37%) want to work, but are held back by the fear of having their benefits stopped.

So the law is changing to remove this obstacle and give them more of an incentive to find employment.

What’s changing?

Under the new system, getting a job won’t automatically trigger benefit reassessment if you’re on:

• new-style employment and support allowance
• personal independence payment
• universal credit health element

In addition, people who want to volunteer will be able to do so without fear of having their benefits looked at.

When a benefit reassessment is already due to happen, that will continue as normal.

The new measures will come into force at the end of April.

“Giving sick and disabled people legal protection to try work without fear is vital for their futures and for growing our economy,” said Sir Stephen Timms, the social security and disability minister.

“It’s part of the work we’re doing to bear down on the cost of living and boost living standards for sick or disabled people in every corner of the country.

“With 2.8 million people out of work due to long-term sickness, we’re removing the barriers that have held people back for too long.

Charities welcome new law

The change in the law has been welcomed by charities that represent disabled people and those with long-term health problems.

Brian Dow, chief executive of Mental Health UK, said: “People often tell us that fear of reassessment, or even losing essential support if things don’t work out, is a significant barrier to taking those first steps back into work. 

“The right to try is a positive and practical step that will ensure people have a safety net when exploring opportunities for work or volunteering.”

Mencap chief executive Jon Sparkes described the changes as “sensible and welcome steps” to help more disabled people into work and rebuild trust in the welfare system.

“People with a learning disability want to work, but the benefits system is often the biggest barrier, so protecting people’s benefits when they try work is particularly important,” he said.

Minesh Patel of Mind added that the inclusion of volunteering is a particularly welcome part of these changes.

“Volunteering can provide individuals with more flexibility and options and can often be a gateway to employment, whilst also being beneficial for people’s mental health,” he said.

Find out what benefits you can claim 

For many, it isn’t always clear what financial support you might be entitled to if you’re struggling.

But we’re here to make it simple for you and help you find out what help you could receive.

Try our benefits calculator or get in touch to see if you’re getting all the support you’re entitled to.