ESA WRAG

Thank you for your email.

 

 I believe we need a welfare system that supports the most vulnerable, and helps those who can work into suitable employment. That is why the Government wants to increase employment among people who have health challenges but are capable of taking steps back into work.  ESA provides support for those who cannot work because of a health condition or disability. People who can do some work-related activity are placed in the 'Work-Related Activity Group' (WRAG) where they take steps to prepare themselves for employment.
 
At the moment, these people get higher payments than people on Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) in recognition of the fact they may have specific needs depending on what health challenges they face. However, simply paying a higher benefit to individuals may not be the best way to help claimants overcome these additional barriers to work they may face. In addition, the disparity in payments could discourage claimants from making the most of opportunities to help them move closer to work.
 
That is why the Government is aligning ESA WRAG payments with JSA, and putting the monies to better use by investing in services tailored towards helping WRAG claimants into work. The Government has committed £100 million of additional funding per year by 2020-21 specifically to help meet the needs of people with limited capability to work. This means the money will be targeted much more effectively. This change will also only apply to new claims after April 2017, meaning nobody will see their entitlement fall in cash terms. 

 

This is why I believe it was right that the Government stopped any changes to the PIP benefit but I still stand with my decision that the changes to WRAG will help those able to look for employment whilst still protecting those who are not able to work.