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The WCA is not fit for purpose

By Press Office
December 9, 2013

Commenting on the publication of People's review of the WCA: further evidence (http://www.ekklesia.co.uk/node/19621 ), Simon Barrow, co-director of the beliefs and values think-tank Ekklesia, said:

"The accumulating research evidence for the hugely damaging impact of 'fit for work' assessment processes on a significant number of disabled and sick people is not something a civilised government or society can ignore.

"The political class in Britain needs to shift its approach and attitudes to welfare radically.

"We agree with the British Medical Association and other expert bodies and analysts that the current Work Capability Assessment (WCA) is not fit for purpose.

"Further serious questions are also being raised about intentions and actions of the Department of Work and Pensions.

"The publication of new evidence about the impact of WCA from the Spartacus network of disabled researchers and campaigners illustrates the crucial need for policy in this area to be formulated with the substantial involvement of those most directly affected.

"The case for an independent, cumulative impact assessment of welfare reform in the UK, together with a new deal for disabled and sick people based on their needs and aspirations, is now overwhelming.

"Ekklesia is delighted that this proposal will now be discussed in parliament, following huge public support for the WOW petition, and urges that this should take place in the parliamentary chamber itself, not in a Westminster annex."

* People's review of the WCA: further evidence - http://www.ekklesia.co.uk/node/19621

* Urgent action: letter to MPs asking parliament to listen to disabled and sick people - http://www.ekklesia.co.uk/node/19587

* ATOS and DWP stand accused over flawed 'fit for work' assessments - http://www.ekklesia.co.uk/node/19623

Although the views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of Ekklesia, the article may reflect Ekklesia's values. If you use Ekklesia's news briefings please consider making a donation to sponsor Ekklesia's work here.