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Written question asked by Marion Fellows (Scottish National Party) on Wednesday, 20 April 2022, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 25 April 2022. It was answered by Chloe Smith (Conservative) on Wednesday, 27 April 2022 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

Social Security Benefits: Learning Disability and Mental Health

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what steps her Department is taking with the Equality and Human Rights Commission to draw up a legally binding agreement to commit to an action plan that meets the needs of benefit recipients with mental health impairments and learning disabilities.

Answer

Since March 2021, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has been corresponding with the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) about the Department’s duty to make reasonable adjustments for disabled people pursuant to the Equality Act 2010.

The Department is committed to continuously improving services and delivering in a way that is compassionate and responsive to claimant needs. However, DWP considers it complies with the requirements of the Equality Act 2010 and has not identified any systemic unlawful action.

For that reason, DWP has not reached or entered into a legal agreement with the EHRC and therefore there is no timetable planned for publishing a legally binding commitment.

The Department will continue to work collaboratively with the Commission towards fulfilling shared goals and addressing any of their concerns.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
156515
Session
2021-22
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Equality and Human Rights Commission Learning disability Mental health Social security benefits
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk