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Written question asked by Lorraine Beavers (Labour) on Monday, 14 September 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 12 October 2026. It was answered by Stephen Timms (Labour) on Monday, 12 October 2026 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

Access to Work Programme

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what steps his Department is taking with the Department of Health and Social Care to assess how changes to the Access to Work programme’s policy, implementation and claimant interactions could improve health outcomes and prevent avoidable deterioration of health for disabled people and people with long-term health conditions.

Answer

Access to Work is an important programme that supports many people and reform in this area is complex. We are committed to ensuring the system remains fair, and sustainable and changes must be carefully designed to ensure they deliver real improvements and this work takes time, but it is important we get it right.

We have taken the time needed to consult widely, collaborate, and gather evidence from disabled people, employers, and representative bodies. We are continuing to refine policy options, and ministers will announce next steps when the policy, evidence, and delivery plans are fully developed.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
29840
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Access to work programme
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk