U-turn over benefit tests for people on chemotherapy

UK Political Correspondent

Tuesday 18 September 2012

NO cancer sufferer will have to prove they are looking for work if they are receiving treatment, following the latest U-turn by the Tory-LibDem Coalition.

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Kate Devlin Uk Political Correspondent

Campaigners had protested against new rules which meant some would have to look for a job while receiving chemotherapy or have their benefits docked.

But ministers have ruled everyone being treated for the disease will get support.

The latest announcement affects Scottish cancer sufferers because although health is devolved to Holyrood, the benefits system is not. Ministers have announced that no patients receiving treatment will have to prove they are looking for a job to keep their sickness benefits. Previously those taking oral forms of chemotherapy and radiotherapy could have been asked to make efforts to find work.The move comes after a review of controversial fit-to-work assessments.The Coalition Government, which is aiming to cut £16 billion from the welfare bill, wants to get thousands off benefits and into work. Ministers say the tests are necessary to free people trapped on state support. Critics say the assessments are not sensitive enough and the Coalition is trying to save money by targeting society's most vulnerable. Employment Minister Mark Hoban, who announced the change, said: "Treatment for cancer is changing and we need to reflect this in the benefits system."These changes will improve the way people with cancer are assessed and will result in more people with cancer getting the financial support they need."We have listened to cancer charities, and people suffering from cancer, and I am very pleased we can play our part in reducing the burden on people during what everyone knows is a particularly difficult time."It was one of several "considerable improvements" already made to the controversial work capability assessment system as a result of the Harrington Review, he said, led by leading occupational therapist Professor Malcolm Harrington. Mike Hobday, director of policy at Macmillan Cancer Support, said the charity would maintain the pressure to ensure the proposed changes were put into effect for cancer patients."Macmillan campaigned vigorously for greater protection for cancer patients who are too sick to work. We are delighted the Government has listened," he said.

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U-turn over benefit tests for people on chemotherapy

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