Written question asked by James Clappison (Conservative) on Monday, 16 July 2007, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 18 July 2007. It was answered by Caroline Flint (Labour) on Monday, 17 September 2007 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

Pathways to Work: Psychiatry

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what assessment he has made of the demand for (a) cognitive behavioural therapists and (b) other appropriate therapists in the implementation of the Pathways to Work programme; and what steps he has taken to meet the requirement.

Answer: No specific assessment has been made. The number of cognitive behavioural therapy-trained staff in each area varies according to local needs and how the condition management programme (CMPs) are delivered. Referral to the CMP will not be necessary for all incapacity benefit customers, nor will it be the first option to consider. Referral will only be appropriate if the customer feels that they cannot return to work yet because of their condition. The incapacity benefit personal adviser will discuss the range of other appropriate therapies and support available to the customer at work focused interviews. Regular contact between the CMP Manager and the Pathways to Work manager is designed to improve the delivery of the programme and enhance the customer experience.This Department does not directly recruit practitioners of cognitive behavioural therapy or any other therapists.

Secondary information