Scope responds to Office of National Statistics

In response to the Office of National Statistics, which revealed that almost five million people remain on the three main out of work benefits, Richard Hawkes, chief executive of disability charity Scope commented:

“If the Government is serious about reducing the number of people claiming benefits they need to invest in developing a welfare system that provides the tailored support that disabled people need to find a job.

"In the current economic climate, with high unemployment and fierce competition for jobs, disabled people won't find work by simply being forced off benefits or shunted from one type of benefit to another via arduous assessment regimes.

"We also need to ensure that any plans for welfare reform allow legitimate claims to continue to be made, ensuring those who do need additional support continue to receive the right support at the right time.”