Starmer government reduces benefits assessments amid record mental health case backlog
By
Peter Stevens
Lacks bite. And filling. And a copy-editor at the bakery.
Summary
Sir Keir Starmer's government is reducing the frequency of benefits assessments (described as "watering down") due to a record backlog of mental health cases. The welfare assessment system is at risk of collapsing, prompting immediate changes while long-term reforms are developed. Conservative MP Helen Whately has warned that fewer reviews will result in greater costs to taxpayers, though the government claims the reforms will save nearly £2 million.
Key quotes
· 5 pulledSir Keir Starmer is 'watering down' benefits checks amid a record backlog of mental health cases.
The welfare assessment system has been at risk of 'falling over', with an immediate need to make changes.
Helen Whately warned fewer reviews would come at 'greater cost to the taxpayer'
Senior DWP officials said there was an 'immediate need to act' while long-term reforms to the welfare system were being developed
The Government has claimed the reforms will save nearly £2million for the taxpayer
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