All disability health assessments are set to be recorded on a new system from next year, it has been announced. The DWP recently stated plans to move to a new telephony platform in 2024, making enhancements to the video assessment application.
The move comes after the Work and Pensions Committee recently published a report into the system, The Daily Record reports. The system is used by people who are unable to work or face costs because of disability or ill-health to access vital benefits. The report contained a proposal from the chair, Sir Stephen Timms MP for all assessments to be recorded by default, with an option for claimants to opt-out.
The cross-part committee of MPs said footage could then be used to review cases more accurately without having to go to appeal, and help assessors learn from past mistakes. It added that some of the suggestions could drive down the high rate of decisions reversed on appeal, which still stands at 69 percent for Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
