Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment he has made of the adequacy of the expertise of assessors who are conducting health assessments for Industrial Injuries Disablement benefits on former mineworkers in taking into account the often-complex health issues they are likely to have.

The assessment provider, Centre for Health and Disability Assessments (CHDA), is required to ensure that all healthcare professionals (HCP) carrying out Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB) assessments have sufficient training and knowledge of the clinical aspects, and likely overall functional effects of, a wide range of health conditions and impairments.

IIDB assessments are undertaken by doctors who have successfully completed an initial IIDB training programme. If they are assessing a respiratory disease, they must complete additional respiratory disease training; which ensures that the HCPs are fully competent in managing the complex health issues that mineworkers may suffer from.

Assessment quality is a priority for both CHDA and the department. We work closely with disabled people and their representatives to shape how assessments are delivered and to improve every stage of the claimant journey. This includes making improvements to guidance, training, and audit procedures to ensure a quality service.