The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed a major change to health assessments for disability and sickness benefits, effective from Monday. All assessments for Personal Independence Payment, Universal Credit, Employment and Support Allowance, and Work Capability Assessments will now be automatically audio recorded as standard, moving from an opt-in system to an opt-out default.
Previously, fewer than 3% of claimants opted into audio recording. The change aims to "improve assessment quality and improve transparency," according to the DWP. Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit is also included among the affected benefits.
Ministerial statement on the change
Labour Party Minister for Social Security and Disability Sir Stephen Timms said: "Improving transparency and trust in the benefits system is one of this government’s key aims, which is why we’re making this important change. Audio recording health assessments as standard will mean we are available to make improvements and increase assessment quality, resulting in a better experience for claimants."
Claimants who do not wish to have their assessment recorded may opt out, the DWP has confirmed.
How the process will work
Claimants will receive an appointment letter from the Health Assessment Advisory Service (HAAS), which will explain the type of assessment booked. Assessments will be recorded automatically if they take place over the phone or in person, either at a centre or in the claimant's home.
If a claimant decides they no longer want to be recorded, they can inform the health professional conducting the assessment. Decision makers will not use recordings to make their decisions.
Accessing the recording
Claimants can request a copy of their recording at any point during the assessment or by calling the number on their appointment letter. Once ready, they will receive a text message with a secure link to download it. Access requires a smartphone and the claimant's National Insurance number.
For those without a phone or means to download the recording, a Right of Access request can be submitted, or they can write to the DWP.
