Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what recent assessment her Department has made of the (a) accuracy and (b) efficiency of contracted out health assessments for claimants of (i) employment and support allowance and (ii) personal independence payment with severe hidden disabilities.

We continually look to improve the accuracy and efficiency of the assessment service by working closely with Providers. We are committed to ensuring individuals receive high quality assessments as part of the suite of evidence used to decide entitlement. Providers are monitored against a range of measures, including through Independent Audit, to improve accuracy of the advice they provide.

Assessment Providers are required to ensure Health Professionals carrying out assessments have knowledge of the clinical aspects and likely functional effects of a wide range of health conditions and impairments, including hidden disabilities affecting both physical and mental health. Health Professionals are also expected to explore and consider the hidden nature of some symptoms, such as fatigue and pain, during their assessments.