Hi TrueDefective
The HAAS companies Serco, Capita, Maximus and Ingeus could restart assessments at any time. But they are not recruiting WCA assessors at present which is an indication that there isn't a change.
Liz Kendall's new scheme is only at Green Paper stage and will need to go through Parliamentary committee during which there maybe changes. So your friend may be right about a start date in the second half of 2026.
David
Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems