§ Lord Molloyasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they will supply information relating to the increase in workload and staff reductions in the offices of the Department of Health and Social Security and the effect on the efficiency of the service.
§ Lord EltonThe number of staff needed to do the work required in social security local offices is calculated and allocated on the basis of comprehensive and detailed statistical analyses and forecasts of the workload which cover a large number of factors, including the number of claims expected. Workloads vary considerably by type and duration of claim and the action that has to be taken. All these factors vary over time and as a result of legislative, policy and procedural changes.
Staffing levels are reviewed and adjusted frequently, under arrangements negotiated and agreed with the central departments and the trades unions. Staff resources available also vary over time, and local and regional managers are responsible for making adjustments within and between offices to cope in the most efficient and effective way with variations in workloads and staffing.
The DHSS complementing system was considered by the Public Accounts Committee in a report published on 10th March. We propose, however, to prepare a short guide to the system and I shall send one to the noble Lord when it is ready.