Citizens Advice call on Government to make Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) fit for work.

People who have been unable to work are being urged to take part in a survey on whether the current benefits system is fit for purpose.

The Citizens’ Advice Bureau is leading a national campaign for Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), the benefit offered to people who are unable to work due to illness or disability, to be improved.

The charity wants changes to be made to the way medical evidence is sourced to support claims, how claimants are supported financially during the application process and how the work capability assessments themselves are monitored.

Alyn and Deeside AM Carl Sargeant is urging people in Alyn and Deeside who have been affected in any way by ESA to take part in the survey.

He said:

“The CAB is keen to hear not only from those who have been directly affected, but their friends and family, advisers, Job Centre staff and medical professionals.

“Far too many people in my constituency have been negatively affected by the UK Government’s welfare reforms, which continue to hit our poorest and most vulnerable members of society.

“It is unacceptable that those who are struggling the most should have to bear the brunt of these savage cuts – and the Chancellor of the Exchequer has already promised there will be more on the way.

“I would urge everyone in Alyn and Deeside who has dealt with the ESA system to take a few minutes to share their views with the CAB.”

For more information, visit http://blogs.citizensadvice.org.uk/blog/was-it-fit-for-work-for-you/.