Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, how many disability employment advisers were employed by his Department and its executive agencies in each of the last 60 months; and what his future policy is on the number of advisers employed.

· ABM = Activity Based Management System, FTE = Full Time Equivalent staff resource

· Includes all advisory activity conducted by the Disability Employment Adviser function regardless of client group or interview type. Figures do not include any Management, Operational Support or Business Support apportionment.

The table provided is a snapshot of the number of full time equivalent staff deployed in the disability employment adviser function. District Managers ensure these staff are deployed to meet local requirements.

DEA numbers increased in 2010 to support the implementation of the 'Work Choice' programme as the DEA was the main referral route way. The numbers continued to rise as the flow onto the programme increased. Once the demand slowed, DEA numbers were reduced accordingly. During this period, the Work Programme was also launched which provided dedicated specialist support for customers.

In addition the training for DWP mainstream advisers has been enhanced to better equip them to meet the requirements of customers with complex needs.

We recognise the value this role brings in working with claimants with a range of disabilities, and ill health conditions, as well as linking up with local provision of services. Future policy on how many disability employment advisers are employed is being considered as part of the future Disability and Health Employment Strategy.