Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, for what reason Access to Work advisers no longer accept supporting evidence by email for new and renewal applications; what assessment he has made of the potential impact of that change on processing times; and what steps he is taking to ensure that disabled people are not subject to delays in accessing and retaining employment as a result.

As has been the case for many years under successive administrations, DWP does not generally allow evidence for health and disability benefits to be submitted via email. This is because this evidence often contains sensitive personal data, which must be submitted via more secure means. Contact methods, including evidence submission, for Access to Work was brought into alignment with this policy.

We do, however, support alternative methods of communication, including the use of email, for customers who, because of their disability or health condition, are unable to submit evidence by other means.

We do not anticipate any significant impact on processing times for Access to Work customers. We also continue to prioritise employed and self-employed applicants who are due to start work within the next four weeks or renewing existing grants, to minimise disruption to employment.

We are reviewing all aspects of Access to Work as we develop plans for reform, and ensure Access to Work is tailored to the needs of all customers.