§ 13. Mr. SinghTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what steps he is taking to improve the living standards of the poorest disabled people. [79740]
§ Mr. DarlingOur proposals for a new Disability Income Guarantee together with measures in the Welfare Reform Bill will provide more help for disabled adults and children who need help most.
§ 36. Mr. Peter BradleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will make a statement on the steps he has taken to remove obstacles within the benefits system to people with disabilities who wish to train for, seek or undertake employment. [79764]
§ Mr. BayleyWe are removing barriers to work from the benefit system. We introduced a new 12 months linking rule for incapacity benefits last year, which removes the risk of losing money for people on benefits who want to try work.
We are also piloting, for a year, from 11 April 1999, a package of four measures in 15 areas to help people with disabilities, who want to return to work. The pilots will allow those on incapacity benefits to earn a small amount of money (up to £15) without losing benefit; and to test out a job for a trial period whilst remaining on benefit. The pilots will also allow access to a Jobmatch payment of £50 a week for people moving into part-time work; and a Jobfinder's Grant of £200 for those starting work.