'Delayed' UK Welfare Reforms Welcomed

What has been described as a gradual and measured approach to welfare reform by the Westminster Coalition Government is the first proof that a local Executive Minister's arguments are 'beginning to be heard'.

According to NI Social Development Minister, Alex Attwood, (pictured) the UK will now be phasing in the reassessment of those receiving incapacity benefit at a slower pace than originally planned, commenting: "I have been calling for the slow down and proper consideration of these reforms for some time now.

"I have voiced my unease over the range, nature and pace of welfare reform initiatives to Lord Freud; today it would seem that London has been listening to what I have said," he claimed.

Minister Attwood added that, given Northern Ireland's particular political and social history, and its current economic situation, he believes that time, flexibility, proper phasing and acknowledgement of Northern Ireland's conditions is required.

The SDLP politician added: "In noting the announcement in London, it appears that their approach now parallels the one I had already adopted and argued for.

"I have also tasked my officials with building-in additional support mechanisms and safeguards above and beyond those planned by the Department for Work and Pensions, particularly for those customers who may lose their previous benefit entitlement, to ensure, as far as possible, all receive their welfare entitlements.

"I am committed to ensuring that my Department will take all necessary steps as far as possible in implementing the reform - if implement I must - to protect the most vulnerable in our society," he concluded.

Between now and March 2014 existing incapacity benefits claimants (those on incapacity benefit, severe disablement allowance and income support on disability grounds) will be reassessed under the employment and support allowance (ESA) Work Capability Assessment (WCA) instead of the Personal Capability Assessment.

Millions of people who currently claim housing benefit are also to be given more time before cuts are introduced.

Ministers had planned to introduce a cap from April on how much housing benefit could be claimed, but existing claimants will now have until January 2012 to adjust their circumstances if needed before the limits are brought in.

A second change, to reduce housing benefit rates from average local rents to the value of the lowest third of rents, was due to come into force next October. This will also be delayed for existing claimants until January 2012.

However, any slow-down is only a temporary respite as the UK Employment Minister Chris Grayling also warned yesterday: "It's unacceptable that so many people have been written off to a lifetime on benefits.

"We are determined to get the medical assessment right and provide the necessary help for those that need it.

"Our new Work Programme will ensure that those found fit for work will get the help and support they need to get a job while those found too sick or disabled to work won't be expected to and will continue to receive the support they need to lead fulfilling lives."

(BMcC/GK)