Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what financial support the Government offers people waiting for appointments for long-term medical problems if they are unable to work due to their condition.

Statutory Sick Pay is both administered and paid entirely by employers at a rate of £99.35 per week. It provides a measure of earnings replacement to employees who are sick and incapable of work. Employers are required to pay it at the legal minimum rate for up to 28 weeks where an employee meets the qualifying conditions. Many employers decide to pay more, and for longer, through Occupational Sick Pay.

People whose capability for work is affected because they are disabled or have a health condition, may be eligible for Universal Credit and/or New Style Employment and Support Allowance, subject to satisfying their eligibility conditions. The Work Capability Assessment determines an individual’s capability for work. For people found to have limited capability for work, their Jobcentre work coach uses their discretion to set work-related activity, appropriate to the claimant's circumstances and capability, to help them prepare to start work when they are able. People who have limited capability for work and work-related activity are not required to carry out any work-related activity but can do so if they wish.

People who have a long-term health condition or disability may also be eligible for Personal Independence Payment, to help with the extra costs of living they may face.