Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, with reference to Tribunal Statistics Quarterly: January to March 2022, published on 9 June 2022, which showed 72 per cent of Personal Independence Payment tribunals overturning decisions in favour of the claimant, what assessment she has made of the performance of Capita and Independent Assessment Services.

Entitlement to Employment and Support Allowance and Personal Independence Payment is determined by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) decision makers, based on all the evidence received, including that from the claimant, their health professionals and advice from the assessment providers (APs). The main reasons decisions are overturned on appeal are; tribunals drawing a different conclusion based on the same evidence, cogent oral evidence given by the individual, or new written evidence provided at the hearing. These are complex benefits where evidential issues clearly impact outcomes.

There is a comprehensive performance regime which drives the APs to meet stringent quality standards. Through robust contract management processes and by working in partnership, we continually monitor and work with APs to manage performance and obtain maximum value. If they are unable to meet our expectations, we will work with them to address any issues, whilst seeking any financial compensation as appropriate under the terms of the contract.