Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, if she will increase the number recording devices available for benefits assessments in Wirral.

Anyone who is required to attend a Work Capability Assessment can ask to have their face-to-face assessment audio recorded. The Centre for Health and Disability Assessments ensure that sufficient recording equipment is available at the assessment centre, including transferring additional equipment to sites as required.

Every claimant for Personal Independence Payment who wishes to have their assessment recorded has the right to do so but they must provide the recording equipment. DWP has set conditions for such recordings to take place, which are listed in the PIP Assessment Guide and are contained within correspondence to claimants from Assessment Providers.

DWP will continue to keep the recording of assessments policy under review.