Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, with reference to the ONS release Rising ill-health and economic inactivity because of long-term sickness, UK: 2019 to 2023, dated 26 July 2023, how job coaches work with people self reporting (a) bad nerves and (b) anxiety.

Work coaches are trained to consider claimant's circumstances and to tailor support according to their individual needs. Staff complete training that covers a wide range of circumstances, including when claimants disclose they are experiencing a range of mental health issues.

The requirements any claimant is asked to meet will be clearly set out in their Claimant Commitment. All requirements are set in discussion with the claimant, tailored to their capability and circumstances, making them realistic and achievable.

Work coaches are also signposted to tools, guidance, support and websites to effectively use resources from both internal and external sites. This ensures that they access the most up to date advice on a particular health condition. They also have access to information on services available in their local area and can signpost to relevant organisations for support.