The benefit trap

The cost of disability benefits and incapacity benefits have risen over time, and are set to reach almost £100 billion by the end of the decade as claimant numbers rise. This puts pressure on the public finances.

But the system is also not working well for disabled people either. Many want to work, but too few are offered help to find work and not enough workplaces offer suitable employment opportunities.

‘The benefit trap’ examines why the number of incapacity benefit claimants has risen and sets out recommendations for a better system.

To help 500,000 more people into work over ten years, the report argues the Government should:

• Work with employers
• Improve and decouple financial support
• Introduce a Benefit Passport
• Invite people to regular Work Support Conversations
• Expand employment support