Written question asked by Jo Swinson (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 11 August 2011, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 7 September 2011. It was answered by Lord Grayling (Conservative) on Wednesday, 7 September 2011 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

Incapacity Benefit

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what discussions he has had with Ministers in the Scottish Government on health interventions and programmes to reduce the number of claimants of incapacity benefit; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: There have been no discussions with ministerial colleagues in the Scottish Government on this specific issue although our Departments work closely together on the Government's plans for welfare reform.The Department for Work and Pensions has an effective working relationship with officials in the devolved Administrations, including those in Scotland, and ensures that there are many opportunities to discuss issues and concerns in detail.All those moving to employment and support allowance or jobseeker's allowance as a result of the incapacity benefit reassessment will be able to access the Work programme at an early stage of their claim. Work programme providers are free to innovate and design support that addresses the needs of individuals. They will be paid primarily for the results they achieve in supporting people into sustained employment, and they will be paid more to support people who are further from the labour market.In addition, Work Choice, launched last October, provides tailored support to help disabled people who face the most complex barriers to employment find and stay in work (including self-employment) and ultimately help them progress into unsupported employment, where it is appropriate for the individual. Work Choice is voluntary and available regardless of any benefits being claimed.

Secondary information