The DWP will have cleared most of the work capability assessment (WCA) reassessment backlog for claimants whose condition has deteriorated in the next six months, disability minister Stephen Timms told MPs in answer to a written question.
Last month we reported that there was a backlog of 110,000 WCA reassessments and little sign of the DWP reducing that figure, because they were focusing on assessments for new claimants rather than existing ones.
However, in his latest written parliamentary answer, Timms says that 35,000 of the reassessments are for claimants who have reported a change in their circumstances, usually a deterioration in their condition, up to May 2025. These are claimants who may be entitled to a higher rate of benefit.
The DWP are now working with the private sector suppliers (Maximus, Capita, Serco and Ingeus) to increase the number of assessors available. 6,000 of the deterioration reassessments are now being worked on, with most of the 35,000 to be dealt with over the next six months.
In a separate response to a Freedom of Information request, the DWP have confirmed that claimants with LCW who report a deterioration in their health before 6 April 2026 will – if they meet the criteria - receive the current LCWRA rate, rather than the almost halved rate that is to be introduced for new claims from that date.
