Review of Incapacity Benefits underway

A review of the impact of the changes to the Incapacity Benefit system, implemented in October 2004, is now underway. Professor Bruce Stafford of Nottingham University is leading the review. Professor Stafford has extensive experience in research in social security and in disability issues and therefore is the ideal person to review Jersey’s system.

Senator Paul Routier, Minister for Social Security commented: "When changes are made to benefits it is usual to review after a period of 3-5 years to allow time for trends to emerge and so at this stage it is too early to examine the full effects of the new benefits.

Rather, this is the first stage of an ongoing process and, Professor Stafford, working independently will give his views on the initial effects, so that we can build on the change".

The changes to the Incapacity benefits were a direct result of public consultation when the then Employment and Social Security Committee was advised that the benefit system prevented people, who were able and wanted to, returning to the workplace. So, one of the main reasons for the changes were to facilitate a return to work while continuing to give immediate support to those with short-term illness.

Senator Routier added – "a great deal of work has been done in the UK and elsewhere on how best to support people returning to work and while there are times when people are not able to work, even having a long-term health problem need not be a barrier to work. Indeed, evidence shows that work can be part of the recovery process and is important to our confidence and sense of well-being. Getting a sick note is not always the best way".

The review will cover all aspects of the Incapacity process, including the issuing of medical certificates, the role of the employer, work interventions and financial support as well as the claim process.

Professor Stafford will conduct interviews with benefit recipients, employers, doctors and politicians as well as Social Security staff. One to one interviews and some focus groups are being set up, but anyone can put forward comments in writing.

Said Senator Paul Routier, "I am confident that Professor Stafford is the right person to begin this review and I would encourage anyone who wishes to, to send their comments directly to Professor Stafford. All submissions will be treated in the strictest confidence."

Senator Routier added, "I would like to emphasise that submitting a response has no effect on receipt of benefits and that the more people who give their opinion and details of their experiences, the more complete the review will be".

The review is due to be completed in September 2006.