New tougher disability tests for long-term sick

The government has unveiled new tougher disability tests in a bid to cut the number of people claiming incapacity benefit as part of its welfare reforms.

The number claiming incapacity benefits has risen over the last ten years to 2.7m, while the number of unemployed has halved.

The government hopes the new tests ,which are due to be introduced in October with the employment and support allowance, will help identify those who could benefit from therapy to help them return to work.

David Coats, associate director, policy, at The Work Foundation said: “Hard-to-reach groups require sustained, high-quality professional help with soft skills and work readiness, and employers who are prepared to help them make a go of their working lives.”