The UK government is set to introduce major welfare reforms, with Health Secretary Wes Streeting highlighting concerns over the “overdiagnosis” of certain mental health conditions and the increasing number of people being “written off.” Streeting emphasized that these factors are driving the government’s proposed changes to the benefits system.
Speaking to broadcasters, Streeting faced questions about whether ministers were leaving disabled individuals in the dark regarding upcoming reforms. One key issue is the potential freeze of the Personal Independence Payment (PIP), a disability benefit that does not depend on employment status.
PIP Changes Expected Despite Backlash
While the government appears to have backed down from freezing PIP after pushback from Labour MPs, significant changes are still expected. These may include making it harder to claim the benefit and tightening eligibility criteria for employment support programs for those too sick to work.
Addressing concerns about overdiagnosis, Streeting told the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg:
“I want to follow the evidence, and I agree there is an issue with overdiagnosis. Mental wellbeing and illness exist on a spectrum. Too many people are being written off, and too many aren’t getting the early support they need. If we provide that support sooner, we can help people stay in work or return to work.”
Labour MPs Raise Alarm Over Stricter Benefit Rules
Reports indicate that some ministers threatened to resign if the PIP freeze had moved forward, as it would have required a parliamentary vote. However, Labour MPs remain concerned about stricter eligibility rules and potential cuts to the Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), which assists those unable to work.
Streeting acknowledged that he had not yet seen the full welfare reform plans, stating:
“The proposals haven’t come to the cabinet yet. But I do know the work and pensions secretary wants to support those who need help the most. We need to ensure there’s a broader range of support available.”
Balancing Welfare Reform with Support for Vulnerable Groups
Streeting stressed that his political mission was not to cut financial aid for vulnerable individuals but to create a welfare system that provides dignity, independence, and economic opportunity. He highlighted the need for reform, citing alarming statistics:
• 1 in 8 young people in the UK are not in education, employment, or training.
• 1 in 10 working-age adults are off work due to illness.
• 3 million people are unable to participate in the labor market due to long-term health conditions.
While acknowledging that some individuals with severe disabilities or chronic illnesses cannot work, Streeting argued that many others are capable and should be supported in re-entering the workforce.
“The welfare state should be a springboard back to work. Many people are written off when they actually can and want to contribute.”
The government is expected to unveil its full welfare reform package soon, sparking further debate over the balance between financial support and encouraging workforce participation.
