Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what discussions her Department has had with the Department of Health and Social Care on the potential links between mental health problems and welfare sanctions.

No specific discussions have been had with the Department of Health and Social Care on the potential links between welfare sanctions and claimants’ mental health. Decision makers take all the claimant’s individual circumstances, including any health conditions or disabilities, and any evidence of good cause into account, before making a decision. The Department is committed to supporting those who cannot work, and those with additional needs.