§ Jackie BallardTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans he has to introduce safeguards in respect of the welfare of people with diagnosed mental illness in his benefits review process. [81357]
§ Mr. BayleyFrom the beginning of this month, the Benefit Integrity Project was replaced by a system of periodic inquiry into Disability Living Allowance (DLA)466W entitlement. This is designed to be fairer to the welfare of vulnerable benefit claimants, including those with mental illness. We have discussed the operational procedures with disability organisations and we are aware that when contacting claimants, we need to take account of their individual circumstances and the effect that this contact may have. We are taking steps to ensure that any periodic inquiry literature issued to claimants, including to those who are diagnosed with a mental illness, is both clear and user-friendly, giving people the opportunity to discuss the best way of obtaining information as to their needs. We have also recognised the need to carry out specialised training on mental health issues for visiting officers and adjudication officers involved in the inquiry process. This training is planned to start in late May.
Certain types of case are exempt from action from the periodic inquiry from the outset. These include certain categories of mental illness, and the full list can be found in the pursuant answer to the hon. Member for Winchester (Mr. Oaten) on 10 March 1999, Official Report,columns 251–52.
We will continue to discuss the operation of the new arrangements with disability organisations, and will involve them in a comprehensive review of the new system at the end of the first six months of its operation.