An inquiry led by former John Lewis boss, Sir Charlie Mayfield, is under way to investigate how the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) can work with firms to support disabled people and those with long-term illnesses in securing jobs. The 'Keep Britain Working Review', unveiled last November, is set to tackle what's been described as "spiralling levels of inactivity".
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has previously expressed that claimants of long-term sickness benefits should be encouraged to work where possible. Following suit, the UK Government has vowed to help these individuals find employment, hoping to cut down the number of people on sickness benefits.
The full review is expected to conclude by Autumn, while an initial phase which sees Sir Charlie engaging with businesses and health and disability organisations across the country should be finished by Spring. This is expected to tie in with the planned announcement of significant changes to health and disability benefits.
The DWP has shared that Sir Charlie's dialogues will aim to gather insights into the scope, trends, difficulties, and opportunities employers face in recruiting and retaining employees who are unwell or disabled. His recommendations to the UK Government are due to be published later in the year.
Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall has raised concerns over the spiralling costs of sickness and disability benefits, warning of an increase "by £26 billion by the end of this Parliament". Her comments come just before she's set to unveil plans to overhaul the welfare system before Christmas, as reported by the Daily Record.
