§ Mr. Alan HowarthTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what guidance and training is being given to staff concerning the treatment of people who are appealing against a decision that they are capable of work but are signing on as unemployed pending their appeal. [32042]
§ Mr. BurtThis is a matter for Ian Magee, the chief executive of the Benefits Agency. He will write to the hon. Member with such information as is available.
Letter from Ian Magee to Mr. Alan Howarth, dated 11 July 1995:
The Secretary of State for Social Security has asked me to reply to your recent Parliamentary question about the guidance and training given to staff concerning the treatment of people who appeal against a decision that they are capable of work but are signing on as unemployed pending their appeal.
General advice to staff dealing with incapacity benefits and customers found capable of work has not changed with the introduction of Incapacity Benefit (IB). Customers are advised to claim Unemployment Benefit and or Income Support until their appeal is heard. Guidance is given in standing instructions which were amended to take account of the introduction of IB.
Training material was issued to Income Support staff at Benefits Agency offices in January 1995 and was followed by a comprehensive procedures circular issued in March 1995; both documents reminded staff of existing procedures.
Benefit Agency staff are acutely aware of the sensitivities in dealing with customers who appeal against a decision that they are capable of work.
I hope you find this reply helpful.