We welcome legislation on welfare reform, announced in today's Queen's Speech, as an opportunity to debate employment opportunities for disabled people, but we are also concerned at the impact of penalties on those unable to access work.
Speaking about the Government's plans, Chief Executive of United Response, Su Sayer OBE, said:
"We support the Government’s objective of helping disabled people and those with mental health problems into work. Having a job is an important source of independence, self esteem and social inclusion for everyone, and is particularly important for many people with learning disabilities or mental health needs. However, employment rates for these groups remains low and as competition for jobs increases those furthest from the labour market will undoubtedly be the first to lose out, unless we take action.
"Much has been done to increase support for disabled people wishing to enter in to employment, such as the doubling of the Access to Work budget. But as take up of the scheme remains low, we believe that the Government must do more to increase awareness of such schemes in order for them to have a real impact on employment opportunities.
Read the full press release about our comments on the legislation on welfare reform on our website
