HC Deb 10 December 2001 vol 376 cc617-8W
Mr. Boswell

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what assessment he has made of changes in the workload of disability employment advisers; and what plans he has to improve resources for this activity. [20801]

Mr. Nicholas Brown

[holding answer 6 December 2001]: Over the past year Disability Employment Advisers (DEAs) have been affected by two major developments. The new deal for disabled people network of job brokers was launched in July this year and a full network was in place by September. The Access to Work (AtW) Process Review has led to the setting up of regional AtW business centres. The AtW role previously carried out in many regions by DEAs is now delivered through specialist AtW Advisers. These changes mean that DEAs are able to place a greater focus on helping disabled people claiming jobseeker's allowance and activities such as placing, assessment and advisory work with individuals and employers.

These changes, together with the radical modernisation programme being introduced through Jobcentre Plus, will help ensure a major overall improvement in the service provided to disabled people.

Mr. Boswell

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what plans he has to improve training of disability employment advisers with particular reference to developments in(a) medical practice and (b) assistive technologies. [20802]

Mr. Nicholas Brown

[holding answer 6 December 2001]: The training needs of both Disability Employment Advisers (DEAs) and Access to Work (AtW) advisers are regularly reviewed and changes made where necessary.

DEAs focus on helping disabled people get or retain work and develop close links with health professionals, including GPs and occupational health workers. The information DEAs obtain from health professionals is used to help identify what employment might be suitable for the individual. This is based on what a person can do and what they might be capable of, with appropriate support or training, and also any continuing medication needs that need to be taken into account in agreeing goals.

AtW advisers attached to the new AtW business centres are able to use and pool their knowledge and expertise, and have access to expert external advice and assessment of need in relation to assistive technologies.